The Best Vegan Lentil Recipes

ByVegan Focus Editorial

Prepare to fall in love with these “Must-Try” dinners and dishes showcased in “The Best Vegan Lentil Recipes” collection. These irresistible dishes combine tantalizing flavors with nourishing ingredients.

4 Lentil recipe meal photos with title: The Best Simple & Delicious Vegan Lentil Meals

You’ll fine easy-to-make recipes that are sure to become beloved staples in your kitchen. Discover the versatility of lentils as they add savory heartiness to an array of meals, making each dish a delightful experience for your taste buds and a nourishing treat for your body.

Jump to recipes

Nutrition

Lentils are highly nutritious and provide an array of essential nutrients. Here is the approximate nutrition information for 1 cup (198 grams) of cooked lentils:

Calories: 230
Protein: 18 grams
Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Dietary Fiber: 16 grams
Sugars: 2 grams
Fat: 1 gram
Sodium: 4 milligrams
Potassium: 731 milligrams
Iron: 6.6 milligrams (36% of the Daily Value)
Magnesium: 71 milligrams (18% of the Daily Value)
Folate: 358 micrograms (90% of the Daily Value)
Vitamin B6: 0.2 milligrams (11% of the Daily Value)

A plate of Vegan Lentil Bolognese over pasta
Two Vegan Lentil Burgers on a white plate with lettuce and sauce
Platter of Vegan Red Lentil Patties on lettuce

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a valuable addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Lentils contain various vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, folate, and vitamin B6, which play vital roles in supporting overall health.

Menu Suggestion #1

Main Course:

Side Dishes:

Condiments, Toppings and Extras:

  • Guacamole (for burgers or fries)
  • Sliced Tomatoes, sliced red onions, and lettuce
  • Vegan Cheese
  • Mayo, mustard, ketchup
  • Toasted buns for the burgers

Menu Suggestion # 2

Main Course:

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic Bread
  • Mixed Green Salad
  • Roasted Vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant)

Condiments, Toppings and Extras:

Menu Suggestion #3

Main Course:

Side Dishes:

Condiments, Toppings and Extras:

  • Guacamole
  • Chopped green onions
  • Shredded Vegan Cheese
  • Cilantro
  • Tortilla chips

Menu Suggestion# 4

Main Course:

Side Dishes:

  • Pasta or Rice
  • Salad
  • Garlic Breadsticks

Condiments, Toppings and Extras:

What do lentils go well with?

Lentils are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create delicious and nutritious meals. Here are some popular combinations that go well with lentils:

Rice or Quinoa: Lentils and rice or quinoa make a classic and hearty combination. You can cook lentils and grains separately and then combine them for a nutritious base to build a meal.

Grains: Lentils pair beautifully with couscous, bulgur, farro, barley, and millet.

Vegetables: Lentils pair well with a wide range of vegetables. Eggplant and peppers are delicious with lentils. Or consider adding roasted sweet potatoes, or carrots, caramelized onions, diced tomatoes, or steamed broccoli to your lentil dishes.

Leafy Greens: Combine lentils with leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, collard greens or sautéed spinach for a nutritious and filling meal.

Spices and Herbs: Lentils have a mild flavor that can be enhanced with various spices and herbs. Try using cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic, ginger, thyme, or rosemary to add depth and aroma to your lentil dishes.

Coconut Milk: For a creamy and comforting lentil dish, consider cooking lentils with coconut milk. This combination works especially well with red lentils.

Curry Sauce: Lentils are a great addition to curries. Cook lentils in a flavorful curry sauce with coconut milk, curry spices, and vegetables for a satisfying and nourishing dish.

Tomato Sauce: Lentils and tomato-based sauces go hand in hand. Use lentils in place of meat in spaghetti sauce or add them to your favorite pasta dishes.

Potatoes: Lentils and potatoes make some of the most delicious and comforting dishes! They are a fantastic combination.

Salads: Cold lentil salads are refreshing and nutritious. Toss cooked lentils with fresh greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette for a satisfying salad.

Naan or Flatbread: Serve lentil dishes with naan bread or flatbread for a wholesome and filling meal.

Soups and Stews: Lentils are a fantastic addition to soups and stews. They add substance and thickness to the broth while absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.

Tofu or Tempeh: For a protein-rich meal, combine lentils with tofu or tempeh in stir-fries or curries.

Add-ins: Vegan cheese, vegan yogurt, caramelized onions, nuts and seeds, all make wonderful additions as garnishes to lentil dishes or in lentil recipes.

The 9 Best Vegan Lentil Recipes

This handpicked selection of mouthwatering recipes are a testament to the versatility and goodness of lentils.

    1
    Two Vegan Lentil Burgers on a white plate with lettuce and sauce
    Vegan Lentil Burger
    Looking for a less than 30 minute meal? Look no further! This deliciously vegan lentil burger will redefine the concept of a burger. It's an easy-to=make meal has amazing flavors!
    These make the perfect weeknight meal, Lentil Burgers also are lovely for picnics and social gatherings. They are filling enough by themselves or serve with your favorite fries, salads, pickles, and sides. Cooked to perfection and served on a bun with your preferred toppings, these lentil burgers are a culinary adventure that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Prepare to be amazed by this exceptional twist on a classic favorite!
    Check out this recipe
    2
    Bowl of vegan butternut squash lentil curry
    Butternut Squash Lentil Curry
    Butternut Squash Lentil Curry is a culinary gem that's surprisingly easy to prepare! Tender butternut squash and lentils absorb the rich, creamy coconut sauce infused with aromatic spices and nourishing vegetables. Whether you're planning a hearty dinner or a satisfying lunch, this curry fits the bill perfectly. It's also convenient and can be made in advance, frozen, and utilized for stress-free meal prep. It's entirely plant-based and free from gluten!
    This recipe is a breeze to follow, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. It's the type of dish you'll keep in your recipe index. Butternut Squash Lentil Curry is a must-add to your culinary repertoire, offering a perfect harmony of flavors and cozy indulgence.
    Check out this recipe
    3
    A plate of Vegan Lentil Bolognese over pasta
    Vegan Lentil Bolognese
    Lentil Bolognese made with only 7 ingredients, plus seasonings. What could be more simple? This tasty recipe is so good, it can be served over your favorite pasta, spaghetti squash or zucchini noddles. And guess what? It's quite tasty over bread, potatoes, sweet potatoes, rice, millet or quinoa, too.
    This recipe is perfect for a quick meal or to make the sauce on Meal Prep Day to make a variety of meals later. Vegan Lentil Bolognese is a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional meat-based Bolognese. This dish is high in protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a filling and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make, and leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a quick and delicious meal later in the week.
    Check out this recipe
    4
    A pot of French Lentil Stew garnished with parsley
    French Lentil Stew
    Embark on a culinary journey with our French Lentil Stew, a hearty and satisfying main course that's equally at home on your dinner or lunch menu. Drawing inspiration from the time-honored traditions of French cuisine, this vegan stew is a harmonious fusion of tender French green lentils, aromatic herbs, and an array of tasty vegetables. It's a perfect choice for those chilly evenings when you crave warmth and comfort.
    This dish not only pays homage to the storied culinary heritage of France but also aligns perfectly with a vegan and plant-based lifestyle. Let each spoonful transport you to a place where French-inspired comfort takes center stage, providing a heartwarming and delectable experience you'll savor with every bite.
    Check out this recipe
    5
    Baked Green Lentil Meatballs (Vegan)
    Want something quick? These meatballs take a little over 30 minutes to make and are packed with protein.
    There are many things you can do with these meatballs. Make small meatballs for pizza toppings, buddha bowls or for salad toppings. Serve them traditionally for Spaghetti and Meatballs or put a few in a bowl of soup! Or eat them by themselves and try out some amazing new dips and sauces! These meatballs are fun to make, but you'll enjoy eating them even more.
    Check out this recipe
    6
    A slice of Vegan Lentil Meatloaf on a white plate garnished with gravy and a sprig of rosemary. Corner of background is a white bowl of mashed potatoes and green onions near plate.
    Vegan Lentil Meatloaf
    Meatloaf is such a classic recipe that everyone knows about. But this Vegan Lentil Meatloaf offers a new twist. It's still hearty, flavorful and a wonderful main course.
    It pairs well with garlic mashed potatoes, string beans and gravy. Another suggestion would be to serve with a salad and a side of mac and cheese. This is a great meal prep dish because leftovers are wonderful on sandwiches or crumbled up in a wrap or taco.
    Check out this recipe
    7
    vegan lentil chili topped with vegan sour cream
    30-Minute Vegan Lentil Chili
    Nothing says comfort food, like a good chili! This Vegan Lentil Chili is rich and hearty. It's a flavorful plant-based dish made with lentils, vegetables, and spices. Nutritious and delicious, it's made with high-protein lentils.
    From cozy weeknight dinners to weekend game day gatherings, it’s a comforting and wholesome dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. This recipe is so versatile, it can made with a variety of toppings or add-ins to enrich it's already amazing flavors! It's a great family and friends gathering recipe.
    Check out this recipe
    8
    Four vegan meatballs on noodles with a cream sauce and a garnish of parsley in a white bowl
    Red Lentil Meatballs
    Meatballs are handy to have for prepping meals! Vegan Red Lentil meatballs also make a yummy meal or savory appetizer. You can have them over pasta with sauce or gravy, put them in sandwiches, or make them a main course with your favorite sides. The red lentils used in these meatballs make them a creamier tasting version of lentil meatballs.
    Lentil Meatballs are great in grain bowls, and make great lunch box additions. You'll want to make a lot of them because there are so many ways that you can eat them.
    Check out this recipe
    9
    A plate with a serving of vegan lentil vegetable Shepherd's Pie
    Lentil Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie
    Want a hearty meal? This one casserole dish features lentils, potatoes and vegetables all together! It's a family-friendly meal loved by both adults and children. The rich flavors and creamy mashed potatoes make it a comforting and familiar option for all ages.
    It's also leftovers friendly! The shepherd's pie often tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers for lunch or dinner. It really is a crowd pleaser!
    Check out this recipe

    More Delicious Recipe Collections

    More from Vegan Focus Magazine

    Leave a Reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *