11 Lentil Recipes to Try

By Real Simple

Updated April 26, 2016

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Credit: José Picayo

Full of fiber, protein, iron, and vitamin B, lentils are inexpensive and make a great meat substitute or side dish.

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1 of 11

Red Lentil Curry

Credit: José Picayo

Potatoes, carrots, and lentils simmered in an Indian-inspired sauce make a satisfying meatless dinner.

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2 of 11

Lentil Stew With Mustard Greens and Sausage

Credit: Christopher Baker

This hearty one-pot meal is as healthy as it is tasty—it’s filled with mustard greens, sweet potatoes, and lentils.

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3 of 11

Barley and Lentil Salad With Goat Cheese

Credit: Con Poulos

Nutty, chewy barley complements the tender lentils and provides a nice contrast to the crisp lettuce.

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4 of 11

Lentil Fritter Pitas With Red Cabbage Slaw

Credit: Yunhee Kim

Use lentils, cilantro, parsley, garlic, cumin, and bread crumbs to form the meat-free patties.

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5 of 11

Winter Lentil Soup

Credit: Kana Okada

There’s loads of flavor in this hearty yet healthy soup stocked with leeks, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and kale.

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6 of 11

Slow-Cooker Curried Lentils With Chicken and Potatoes

Credit: José Picayo

Brighten up this rich, comforting meal by serving with yogurt, cilantro, and lime wedges.

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7 of 11

Lentil Stew With Oranges

Credit: James Baigrie

Bulk up the stew with thinly sliced chorizo; a final squeeze of fresh orange juice adds sweet citrus flavor.

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8 of 11

Balsamic-Glazed Pork With Lentils

Credit: Christopher Baker

Toss the lentils with apple, celery, parsley, and lemon juice for a refreshing, crisp side that perks up the roast pork.

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9 of 11

Salmon With Warm Lentil Salad

Credit: Quentin Bacon

A piquant dressing of red wine vinegar, mustard, red onion, parsley, and olive oil jazzes up the lentil and arugula salad.

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10 of 11

Halibut With Lentils and Mustard Sauce

Credit: Miha Matei

Mix tender lentils with garlic and sweet potato to lend earthy flavors to mild fish.

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11 of 11

Spice-Baked Sea Bass and Red Lentils

Credit: Kana Okada

Garlic, ginger, and cumin spice up the lentils, complementing the coriander-seasoned fish perfectly.

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