5 Easy One-Pot Lentil Recipes Everyone Will Love

Lentils are a superstar in the world of plant-based foods. They’re also an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier or follow a plant-based diet.

In this blog, we’ll explore 5 easy lentil recipes for healthy eating that everyone can enjoy. Whether you're new to cooking or just looking for some tasty ideas to include lentils in your meals, these simple lentil recipes for lunch and dinner are delicious, nutritious, and beginner-friendly.

Jump to Recipes

Why Lentils Are So Good for You

Before diving into the recipes, let's look at why lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and should be a staple in your diet. Lentils are part of a larger group of crops known as pulses.

Pulses, including beans, peas, and chickpeas, are some of the most sustainable crops. They help improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.

When it comes to nutrition, lentils are a powerhouse:

• Protein:

  Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein (1, 2, 3, 4, 5,). One cup of boiled lentils can provide 25 % of your daily protein needs. However, while lentils are high in protein, they lack some essential amino acids like methionine. Combining lentils with grains like rice or quinoa can provide a more complete protein profile, which is perfect for vegetarians and vegans.

• Fiber:

  Lentils are loaded with dietary fiber. One cup of boiled lentils gives you around 50% of your recommended daily fiber intake. Lentils contain both soluble and insoluble fiber (6, 7, 8, 9). Soluble fiber helps improve gut health, lower cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar. On the other hand, insoluble fiber promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.

  
  

Several studies have established the importance of a fiber-rich diet in reducing cancer risk (10, 11, 12, 13) , especially colon cancer (14, 15, 16, 17, 18).

• Vitamins and Minerals:

  Lentils are also a good iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium source. So if you are a vegan/vegetarian trying to increase your haemoglobin, then lentils are a must-have. These nutrients are essential for supporting immune function and promoting energy levels.

  
  

Now that we know why lentils are so great, let's jump into some healthy dal recipes with lentils that are simple to make and incredibly nutritious.

5 Easy One-Pot Lentil Recipes

Lentils are affordable, full of nutrients, and can be used in various dishes. From soups and stews to snacks and salads, lentils are versatile. They are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.

1. One Pot Lentil Soup Recipe with Pasta

This one-pot lentil soup recipe is a must-try vegan meal with lentils and pasta that combines lentils and pasta in a hearty, flavorful soup. It's packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a perfect dinner option that’s both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup masoor dal (red lentils)

• 1/2 cup lasagna pasta (or any small pasta)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 6 garlic cloves, chopped

• 3 tomatoes, blanched and pureed

• 1 small bunch spinach

• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup

• Oregano to taste

• Salt to taste

• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Sauté the onions and garlic in oil until translucent.

2. Add the pureed tomatoes, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook for a few minutes.

3. Add water and bring to a boil. Add the lentils and cook well.

4. Add the pasta and cook until both the pasta and lentils are tender.

5. Add the spinach just a few minutes before the pasta is done cooking.

6. Stir well and serve hot.

   
   

This one-pot lentil pasta soup is easy to make, flavorful, and nutrient-packed. It’s the perfect quick and healthy vegan meal.

2. Healthy Dal Makhani Recipe

Dal Makhani is a rich and creamy lentil dish that’s popular in Indian cuisine. Traditionally made with black lentils and kidney beans, this dish is full of flavor and can be made healthier by using plant-based ingredients. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and a blend of spices, making it one of the best lentil recipes for vegetarians.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole black lentils (urad dal)

• 1/4 cup kidney beans

• 2 tablespoons oil/butter

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 tomatoes, pureed

• 2 tsp ginger garlic paste

• cinnamon

• 2-3 cardamom

• 3-4 cloves

• 1/2 tsp jeera (cumin seeds)

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

• 2 tbsp light cream or oat milk

• Salt (according to your taste)

  
  

Instructions:

1. Soak the black lentils and kidney beans overnight. Pressure cook them until the dal is mashy.

2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cardamom and cloves, and saute until it turns aromatic.

3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

4. Add the pureed tomatoes, turmeric and chilli powder. Cook for 5 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.

5. Add the cooked dal and leave it on low to medium heat.

6. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, and stir occasionally.

7. Add the cream/oat milk, and take it off the heat.

8. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve with rice or naan .

   
   

Dal Makhani is rich, creamy, and full of spices that pack a punch. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for plant-based meal prep.

3. Dal Tadka Recipe

Dal Tadka is a simple, flavorful lentil dish made by cooking yellow lentils and seasoning them with a tempering (tadka) of spices. It’s one of the most popular dal recipes and can be made in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy nights or quick vegan dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow lentils (moong dal)

• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or olive oil

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 tomatoes, chopped

• 1-2 green chilies, slit (optional)

• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

  
  

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils and cook them with 3 cups of water in a pressure cooker or pot. Cook until soft and mushy.

2. In a separate pan, heat ghee or olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them pop for a few seconds.

3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. Stir in turmeric powder, garlic, and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.

6. Pour this tempering into the cooked dal and stir well.

7. Add garam masala and salt. Let the dal simmer for 5 minutes.

8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or roti.

   
   

Dal Tadka is a flavorful, spicy dish that’s perfect for anyone looking for easy dal recipes for beginners.

4. Dal Khichdi Recipe

Dal Khichdi is a nutritious and easy-to-digest one-pot dish made with rice and lentils. It’s a popular comfort food in many Indian households and is often served when someone is feeling under the weather. This simple recipe is rich in fiber and protein and can be made in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup moong dal (yellow lentils)

• 1/2 cup rice

• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter) or any oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 tomato, chopped

• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice and lentils together in water and soak for 20 minutes

2. In a pressure cooker heat ghee or olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds.

3. Add onions, ginger, and tomatoes. Sauté for 5 minutes.

4. Add the rice, lentils, turmeric, and salt. Stir to combine.

5. Add 4 cups of water and pressure cook for 4-5 whistles.

6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

   
   

Dal Khichdi is light, comforting, and full of nutrients, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. It's great for anyone looking for high-fibre lentil recipes for digestive health.

5. Moong Dal Cheela Recipe

Moong Dal Cheela is a savory, protein-packed pancake made with ground moong dal (yellow lentils). It's a healthy breakfast or snack option that's easy to make and can be paired with chutney or yogurt. It’s a great choice for those looking for high-protein lentil recipes for breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup moong dal (yellow lentils)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 green chili, finely chopped

• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds

• Salt to taste

• Water as needed

• Oil for cooking

• 1/4 cup grated vegetables (carrot, beetroot, coriander, any gourd vegetable)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for 4-6 hours or overnight.

2. Drain the water and blend the soaked dal into a smooth batter, adding a little water as needed.

3. Add chopped onions, green chilies, cumin seeds, and salt to the batter. Mix well.

4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil.

5. Pour a ladleful of batter onto the pan and spread it into a thin pancake.

6. Cook for a few minutes on each side until golden brown.

7. Serve with chutney or yoghurt for a healthy snack or breakfast.

   
   

Moong Dal Cheela is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy lentils in the morning.

How many calories are in 2 moong dal chilla?

2 moong dal chilla may have around 150 calories.

More Nutritious Pulse recipes:

Pulses are versatile ingredients that are used in different cuisines across the world.

• Dosa - a traditional South Indian food, from fermented batter.

• Falafel

• Baked beans

• Chick pea patty with burger (vegan).

Conclusion

Lentils are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in countless delicious dishes. These 5 easy lentil recipes are just the beginning—there are endless possibilities for incorporating lentils into your meals. Whether you're cooking for yourself or feeding a family, these dishes are simple, nutritious, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

So, grab some lentils and try these recipes for a tasty, plant-based meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!