A straightforward yet flavorful option, red lentils are cooked until tender and flavored with a mix of spices, making it a versatile side dish that can complement a wide array of main courses.
This particular recipe calls for a lovely blend of garlic, ginger, jalapenos, cumin, and lemon.
Fewest Ingredients
Let’s dive into some lentil side dishes that only require a handful of ingredients:
An innovative take on the more traditional potato mash, Lentil Mash is as simple as cooking lentils until they are soft enough to be mashed with a fork.
You can add a touch of butter, along with salt and pepper, to create a smooth, rich texture, offering a comforting side dish with minimal ingredients.
This recipe also recommends onion and garlic powder, which can add a delightful flavor kick.
Classic Choices
If you’re looking for a classic lentil side dish, we’ve got some delights for you below:
This dish combines the nutritional benefits of beluga lentils, named for their resemblance to beluga caviar, with the crunch and fiber of root vegetables like carrots and beets.
Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this slaw offers a refreshing and healthy side option that pairs wonderfully with lean proteins.
It’s not just good for you; it’s a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and varied textures.
For those looking to indulge in a rich, creamy experience, Dal Makhani is a must-try.
Originating from North India, this dish combines black lentils and kidney beans cooked to perfection, then enriched with generous amounts of butter and cream.
The result is a luxuriously smooth dish that serves as an opulent accompaniment to a variety of main courses.
These stuffed grape leaves bring a Middle Eastern flair to the table, offering a blend of rice and lentils seasoned with aromatic spices.
Given their small, bite-sized nature, they make a versatile addition to a variety of meals, especially when served alongside a main protein like grilled chicken or fish.
Versatile And Creative
If you’re looking for a lentil side dish that will tantalize your taste buds or wow your guests, why not try one of the recipes below?
Take your lentils on a culinary adventure with these savory fritters.
Made with grated zucchini, onions, and cooked lentils, these fritters are pan-fried to golden perfection and served with fish and a tangy lemony yogurt sauce.
In this dish, lentils and rice come together in a delightful combination, accentuated by the sweetness of caramelized onions and the tangy zing of lemon.
It’s a versatile side that pairs well with almost any main dish.
In Summary
Lentils offer a world of possibilities when it comes to side dishes.
Whether you are short on time, ingredients, or simply looking for something new and exciting, there’s a lentil side dish to meet your needs.
This versatile legume can fit into various cuisines and dietary preferences, making it an essential component in the modern kitchen.
Lentils pair well with a variety of flavors and ingredients, including herbs like rosemary and thyme, vegetables like carrots and onions, and proteins such as chicken, pork, and fish.
They are also complemented by spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric.
What’s the healthiest way to eat lentils?
The healthiest way to eat lentils is to cook them without adding excessive fats or salt.
Steaming or boiling are good methods. Pairing them with vegetables and lean proteins can make for a balanced meal.
Are lentils a protein or a carb?
Lentils are primarily considered a good source of plant-based protein, but they also contain carbohydrates.
A 1-cup serving of cooked lentils provides about 18 grams of protein and 40 grams of carbohydrates, along with a good amount of fiber and other nutrients.
I'm Barbara Hunt, the founder of WomenChefs.org. Being a mom of two, I understand the challenges of meal planning and the monotony it can bring.
That's why I created WomenChefs.org, a platform dedicated to showcasing the skills and delicious dishes crafted by amazing women. My goal is to provide a space where women can find delectable recipes that tantalize their taste buds and ignite their senses.
I hope you'll join me in exploring WomenChefs.org and discovering your next favorite recipe. Let's embrace culinary diversity and try something new together!
