Effortless Lentil Side Dishes: Quick & Delicious Recipes

Lentils are nutritional powerhouses, packed with protein, fiber, and iron. They’re also incredibly versatile and affordable, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. While often used in soups and stews, lentils can also shine as a flavorful and satisfying side dish. This article explores several easy lentil side dish recipes that are quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

## Why Lentils Make a Great Side Dish

* **Nutrient-Rich:** As mentioned earlier, lentils are loaded with essential nutrients.
* **Versatile Flavor:** They can be seasoned in countless ways, complementing various cuisines.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Lentils are a very economical source of protein and fiber.
* **Easy to Cook:** Most lentil varieties cook relatively quickly, especially red lentils.
* **Dietary Friendly:** Naturally gluten-free and vegan, lentils cater to various dietary needs.

## Choosing the Right Lentils

Before diving into recipes, it’s crucial to understand the different types of lentils and their best uses:

* **Brown Lentils:** The most common variety. They hold their shape well during cooking and have a mild, earthy flavor. Great for salads, stews, and as a base for vegetarian shepherd’s pie.
* **Green Lentils:** Similar to brown lentils but with a slightly more peppery taste. They also retain their shape well and are suitable for salads and side dishes.
* **Red Lentils:** Cook very quickly and tend to become mushy. Ideal for soups, purees, and thickening sauces. They have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
* **Black Lentils (Beluga Lentils):** Small, shiny black lentils that resemble caviar. They hold their shape perfectly and have a rich, earthy flavor. Excellent for salads and elegant side dishes.
* **French Green Lentils (Le Puy Lentils):** A type of green lentil grown in the Le Puy region of France. They have a distinctive peppery flavor and hold their shape exceptionally well. Often considered the highest quality lentil.

For side dishes where you want the lentils to retain their shape, brown, green, black, or French green lentils are the best choices. For a creamier side, red lentils can be used, but be mindful of the cooking time.

## Recipe 1: Simple Lemon Herb Lentil Side Dish

This recipe is a great starting point for exploring lentil side dishes. It’s simple, flavorful, and comes together in under 30 minutes.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
* 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Juice of 1/2 lemon
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

**Instructions:**

1. **Rinse the lentils:** Place the lentils in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
2. **Cook the lentils:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still slightly firm.
3. **Sauté the aromatics:** While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, thyme, and oregano and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Combine and season:** Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess liquid. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir to combine.
5. **Add lemon and parsley:** Stir in the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Serve:** Serve the lentil side dish warm. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add vegetables:** Sauté diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onion for added flavor and texture.
* **Use different herbs:** Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or marjoram.
* **Add a touch of spice:** A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.
* **Make it creamy:** Stir in a tablespoon of butter or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra richness.

## Recipe 2: Mediterranean Lentil Salad

This vibrant and refreshing lentil salad is perfect for a light lunch or a flavorful side dish. It’s packed with Mediterranean flavors like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
* 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
* 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
* 1/2 cup chopped tomato
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the lentils:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still slightly firm. Drain any excess liquid and let the lentils cool completely.
2. **Prepare the vegetables:** While the lentils are cooling, chop the cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Halve the Kalamata olives.
3. **Make the dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cucumber, tomato, red onion, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. **Chill and serve:** Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add herbs:** Fresh parsley, mint, or dill would be excellent additions to this salad.
* **Use different cheeses:** Try using goat cheese or halloumi instead of feta.
* **Add protein:** Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or canned tuna can be added for a heartier meal.
* **Add a kick:** A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add some heat.

## Recipe 3: Spiced Lentil Pilaf with Dried Apricots and Almonds

This flavorful and aromatic lentil pilaf is a delightful side dish that’s perfect for special occasions. The combination of spices, dried apricots, and almonds creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
* 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
* 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
* 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
* 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the lentils:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still slightly firm. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
2. **Sauté the aromatics:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add the spices:** Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and cinnamon powder to the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
4. **Combine the ingredients:** Add the cooked lentils, chopped dried apricots, and toasted slivered almonds to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. **Season and serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve warm.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Use different dried fruits:** Try using raisins, cranberries, or dates instead of apricots.
* **Add other nuts:** Pistachios, walnuts, or pecans would also be delicious in this pilaf.
* **Add vegetables:** Sauté diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onion for added flavor and texture.
* **Make it sweeter:** A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness.

## Recipe 4: Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry Side Dish

This recipe brings an exotic touch to your dinner table. It’s a simple but rich coconut lentil curry, perfect as a side or a light vegetarian main course. The mild spice and creamy texture are sure to please.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
* 2 cups vegetable broth (or water)
* 1 tablespoon coconut oil
* 1 small onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 inch ginger, grated
* 1 teaspoon curry powder
* 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
* 1 tablespoon lime juice
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the lentils:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are very soft and beginning to break down.
2. **Sauté the aromatics:** While the lentils are cooking, heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Add the spices:** Add the curry powder, turmeric powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. **Combine the ingredients:** Pour the coconut milk into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then add the cooked lentils. Stir to combine.
5. **Simmer and season:** Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the curry has thickened slightly. Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Garnish and serve:** Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add vegetables:** Spinach, kale, or diced sweet potatoes can be added for extra nutrients and flavor. Add them to the curry during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
* **Make it spicier:** Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for a hotter curry.
* **Serve with rice:** This curry is delicious served over rice, quinoa, or naan bread.
* **Add protein:** Tofu, chickpeas, or chicken can be added for a heartier meal.

## Recipe 5: Roasted Vegetable Lentil Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

This hearty and flavorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and lentils, tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a satisfying and nutritious side dish that can also be enjoyed as a main course.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
* 3 cups vegetable broth (or water)
* 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

**For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:**

* 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
* 4 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Cook the lentils:** In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still slightly firm. Drain any excess liquid and let the lentils cool completely.
2. **Roast the vegetables:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the chopped vegetables with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
3. **Make the vinaigrette:** In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, roasted vegetables, and chopped fresh parsley. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. **Serve:** Serve the lentil salad warm or at room temperature.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Add cheese:** Crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese would be a delicious addition.
* **Add nuts:** Toasted pecans or walnuts would add a nice crunch.
* **Use different vegetables:** Feel free to use any of your favorite vegetables for roasting, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash.
* **Add greens:** A handful of spinach or arugula can be added for extra nutrients.

## Making Lentils Ahead of Time

One of the best things about lentil side dishes is that the lentils themselves can often be cooked ahead of time. Cooked lentils will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making meal prep a breeze. Simply cook a large batch of lentils at the beginning of the week and then use them in various side dishes throughout the week.

## Serving Suggestions

Lentil side dishes are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of main courses. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Grilled Chicken or Fish:** A simple lentil side dish complements grilled chicken or fish perfectly.
* **Roasted Meats:** Lentils pair well with roasted meats like pork or beef.
* **Vegetarian Mains:** Lentil salads or pilafs can be served alongside other vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables or tofu.
* **Grain Bowls:** Add lentils to grain bowls for extra protein and fiber.
* **Tacos or Burritos:** Seasoned lentils can be used as a filling for tacos or burritos.

## Conclusion

Lentils are a fantastic ingredient for creating easy, healthy, and delicious side dishes. With a little creativity and these recipes as a starting point, you can transform humble lentils into culinary masterpieces. So, embrace the versatility of lentils and start experimenting with different flavors and textures to create your own signature lentil side dishes. Enjoy!