Easy recipes with lentils
Got lentils and not sure what to make? Here are 8 easy dinners you can cook tonight. Each one keeps to everyday ingredients and a single skillet or sheet pan where possible, with rough prep and cook times so you can pick by how much time you have. Prefer to cook with exactly what's on your shelf? Tell Cache & Cook what you have and it drafts a recipe free.
Creamy Tomato Lentils with Garlic and Thyme
35 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomforting
Lentil & Herb Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
25 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianfresh
Cumin-Crusted Lentils with Charred Tomatoes and Crispy Garlic
30 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianspicy
Crispy-Topped Lentil & Tomato Skillet
20 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianone-pan
Creamy Tomato Lentils with Crispy Garlic Toast
25 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomfort-food
Lemon & Herb Green Lentils with Quick-Pickled Shallots
25 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianbright
Warm Lentils with Crispy Garlic and Thyme
30 min Serves 4weeknightvegetariancomforting
Warm Lentil Salad with Lemon & Herbs
25 min Serves 4weeknightvegetarianlight
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Common questions
- How long do lentils take to cook?
- Most dried lentils cook in 20-30 minutes, though brown and green lentils are faster (15-20 minutes) while red lentils soften in just 10-15 minutes. Soaking isn't required for lentils like it is for beans, so you can go from dry to dinner quite quickly.
- Can I substitute one type of lentil for another in a recipe?
- Yes, you can generally swap lentil varieties, but keep in mind that red lentils break down into a puree (great for soups and curries), while brown and green lentils hold their shape better (ideal for salads and side dishes). Adjust cooking time slightly based on the type you choose.
- How should I store cooked lentils?
- Store cooked lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months for quick meal prep. Uncooked dried lentils last for years in a cool, dry pantry.
- What proteins or grains pair well with lentils to make a complete meal?
- Serve lentils with rice, quinoa, or whole grain bread to create a complete protein with all essential amino acids, or pair them with yogurt, cheese, or eggs for a satisfying meal. Lentils also work beautifully in grain bowls with roasted vegetables and a simple dressing.
- Are lentils really cheaper and healthier than other proteins?
- Yes—lentils are one of the most affordable and nutritious proteins available, packed with fiber, iron, and plant-based protein at a fraction of the cost of meat. A pound of dried lentils costs just a few dollars and provides multiple servings, making them an excellent budget-friendly choice.