15 Hearty, High-Protein Lentil Recipes!

Lentils: not only are they delicious, but they are hearty, filling and nutritious too! The best part about lentils may just be their versatility, however. You can use them in burgers, sandwiches, soups, curries, pasta, breads, pizza crusts, you name it! We’ve gathered up some of our favorite lentil recipes from our Food Monster App to show you just how incredible lentils can be. Let’s get started!

1. Masoor Peanut Sauce Dal

Image Source: Masoor Peanut Sauce Dal

This particular dal has roots in Indonesia and also draws inspiration from a traditional yellow lentil recipe that comes from the state of Gujarat in India. One of the main elements in this dish is the peanut sauce. This Masoor Peanut Sauce Dal recipe from Heavenly Vegan Dals and Curries by Rakhee Yadav combines both the Indonesian element and Indian spices to make it delightfully textured and delicious and is a perfect example of the versatility of dals!

2. Lentil Nuggets With Sweet and Sour Sauce

Image Source: Lentil Nuggets With Sweet and Sour Sauce

Craving nuggets? Make a swap to this whole-food, plant-based alternative. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Lentil Nuggets With Sweet and Sour Sauce from Natalie Martin MS, RD and Lexie Staten MS, RD are a great finger food for kids. Enjoy fresh out of the oven or as a leftover (even cold!)

3. Instant Pot Idlis (Steamed Rice Lentil Cakes) with Coconut Chutney

Image Source: Instant Pot Idlis (Steamed Rice Lentil Cakes) with Coconut Chutney

A traditional south Indian breakfast, idlis are a steamed rice lentil cake. Once you have the batter made, these idlis can be on the table in 15 minutes! For this recipe you do need an instant pot and an idli stand, which you can find at an Indian grocery store or online. You’ll love these Instant Pot Idlis (Steamed Rice Lentil Cakes) with Coconut Chutney from Vegetarian Indian Cooking With Your Instant Pot!

4. Sweet Potato Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk

Image Source: Sweet Potato Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk

The earthy lentils paired with the inherently sweet potatoes create a lovely base that is perfectly enriched by the savory garlic, onions and plethora of spices. No matter the season or weather, this Sweet Potato Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk from Kaylee Pauley is the perfect treat. It is filling, with depths of flavor and so so delicious!

5. Lentil Loaf With Smoked Paprika Glaze

Image Source: Lentil Loaf With Smoked Paprika Glaze

Flavorful, tender and moist without being sticky. The smoked paprika glaze adds a really nice touch, too. This Lentil Loaf With Smoked Paprika Glaze from Lee Khatchadourian-Reese is a real treat!

6. Lentil Crust Pizza

Image Source: Lentil Crust Pizza

Lentil Pizza Crust. Surprisingly easy and delicious. Suitable for everyone. Only three ingredients! Vegan and Gluten-free! What are you waiting for, get cooking this Lentil Crust Pizza from Amarilis Moldes!

7. Lentil Salad with Crunchy Veggies and Herbs

Image Source: Lentil Salad With Crunchy Veggies and Herbs

Fresh, nourishing & crunchy – this Lentil Salad With Crunchy Veggies and Herbs from Laine Rudolfa is a healthy and easy dish that fills you up more than just a regular salad. Lentils, which are high in plant protein, are satisfying and nutritious. Zucchini, corn, greens, herbs, capers and lingonberries all create a tasty combo and add crispiness. The tangy dressing gives this salad the final flavor bomb. Yum!

8. Lentil Vegetable Soup

Image Source: Lentil Vegetable Soup

This Lentil Vegetable Soup from Christina Bedetta is absolutely incredible. In addition to flavor, it is packed with protein, iron, and fiber from the lentils, powerful antioxidants such as vitamin A from the carrots, and various healing properties from the spices such as cumin, coriander, and garlic.

9. Lentil and Brown Rice Patties

Image Source: Lentil and Brown Rice Patties

These hearty Lentil and Brown Rice Patties from Talida Voinea are a little different to most veggie patties that you would put in a burger. Made from lentils, brown rice, and vegetables like zucchini and carrot, these crisp patties are perfect with a side of mashed root vegetables and a side salad. They are filling, nourishing, and easily made gluten-free if you use gluten-free bread crumbs.

10. Grilled Mexican Quesadilla With Lentils

Image Source: Grilled Mexican Quesadilla With Lentils

Is there ever a bad time for quesadillas? Grilled, cheese oozing, veggies in every bite, in a hot tortilla. A healthy, no-fuss summer meal that is packed with plant-based protein and fiber. Yum! Check out this Grilled Mexican Quesadilla With Lentils from Taylor Kiser.

11. Quinoa Lentil Meatballs

Image Source: Quinoa Lentil Meatballs

These “meatballs” are hearty, flavorful, and delicious! They hold together really nicely and are a great addition to any spaghetti night. Your pasta will be even better when served with these Quinoa Lentil Meatballs from Kristen Genton!

12. Kabocha Squash Lentil Curry