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Why You Should Be Adding Lentils to Your
Plate

Allie Petersen
Allie Petersen
MPAS, PA-C · Plant-Based Health Coach
Why You Should Be Adding Lentils to Your Plate

Lentils are an incredible, nutritious food that are so easy to cook and perfect for any meal! They are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Here are some easy ways to add them to your weekly meals!

Lentil Varieties

There are four main types of lentils, each with a unique texture and best use:

Green or Brown Lentils: These hold their shape well and are perfect for salads, soups, and pilafs.
 

Red Lentils: These cook quickly and become soft and creamy, making them ideal for Indian dals, soups, and purees.
 

Black (Beluga) Lentils: These small, firm lentils hold their shape and have a rich, earthy flavor, great for salads or side dishes.

French Green (Puy) Lentils: These are known for their distinct, peppery flavor and firm texture. They are excellent in salads and as a side dish.

How to Cook Lentils

Cooking lentils is simple, and you don’t need to pre-soak them. 

Just remember to rinse them well before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

Other Lentil Cooking Tips

Seasoning: For the best results, wait until your lentils are fully cooked before adding any salt. This helps them cook evenly and become tender.

Instant Pot: Lentils can also be easily cooked in an Instant Pot for a hands-off approach.

Recipe Ideas: Add cooked lentils to your favorite soups, stews, salads, or create a delicious side dish. See below for some yummy ideas!

1
The Best Red Lentil Sweet Potato Curry
This recipe has had millions and millions of views on Instagram and you all continuously tell me how much you love it. I can whole-heartedly say this is the BEST red lentil curry you will try. Tender red lentils are simmered with sweet potato, warm spices, and swirls of creamy coconut milk. This recipe just gets it right with the balance of flavors. It can be customized with your favorite vegetables or sides such as basmati rice or garlic naan.
Check out this recipe
2
Vegan Mushroom Stew with Lentils
Savory sage mushroom lentil stew is a hearty, cozy dinner, with bold flavors of savory mushrooms and lentils that are complemented by the aromatic essence of sage, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that's great for the chilly months.
Check out this recipe
3
Creamy Golden Lentil Soup
Cozy up with a bowl of this nourishing golden lentil soup with hearty lentils, onion, carrots, ginger, and creamy coconut milk.
Check out this recipe
4
Barley Lentil Soup
This nourishing lentil barley soup is filled with hearty lentils and barley with flavorful fire roasted tomatoes and savory mushrooms for a delicious, cozy soup you will want to make all winter long.
Check out this recipe
5
Red Lentil Dahl with Coconut Milk
This easy, creamy red lentil dahl is a comforting and hearty dinner that only takes 30 minutes. You will love this recipe because it is the perfect blend of warm spices and creaminess. This is comfort food for the soul!
Check out this recipe

Learn More About Cooking with Lentils! 

Check out my post All About Lentils!

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