10+ Summer Lentil Recipes for Fresh and Healthy Meals

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light meals that are easy to prepare. Lentils make a fantastic base for a variety of dishes during the warmer months. These summer lentil recipes provide delicious options that are not only healthy but also budget-friendly.

From salads bursting with color to refreshing lentil bowls, you’ll find numerous ways to incorporate lentils into your summer meals. Whether you are looking for something quick to throw together for a picnic or a hearty dish for a family gathering, there are plenty of ideas to inspire your cooking.

Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and textures that lentils can bring to your summer table.

Lentil and Mango Salad

This delicious Lentil and Mango Salad is perfect for summer. It combines sweet mangoes with hearty lentils and fresh vegetables. You’ll enjoy the mix of flavors and textures.

Start by cooking your lentils. Rinse them and then simmer in water until tender, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, chop fresh veggies like bell peppers and red onion.

Once the lentils are ready, let them cool. Then, mix the lentils with diced mango, veggies, and a simple dressing of olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This bright salad is filling and refreshing.

You can enjoy this dish as a main course or a side. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be served on its own for a light lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse lentils under cold water.
2. In a pot, add lentils and cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
4. Drain lentils and let cool.
5. Chop the bell pepper and onion.
6. In a bowl, mix lentils, mango, veggies, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Curried Lentil Soup

Curried lentil soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for summer. It combines lentils with fragrant spices, making it both delicious and nutritious.

To start, heat some olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until they soften. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Next, add your favorite curry powder for flavor. You can also toss in coconut milk for creaminess. Then, add the lentils and broth, bringing it all to a simmer. Let it cook until the lentils are tender, which takes about 25-30 minutes.

Feel free to adjust the spices to match your taste!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté the onions, carrots, and garlic for 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder.
4. Add coconut milk, lentils, and broth.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Chilled Lentil Tabouli

Chilled lentil tabouli is a refreshing dish perfect for summer. It combines lentils with fresh herbs, veggies, and a zesty dressing. This salad is both nutritious and satisfying.

To make this dish, start by cooking your lentils. Rinse and soak them to keep them light on the stomach. Cook until tender, then chill them in the fridge.

Next, chop fresh parsley, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The herbs are key to a flavorful tabouli. Mix the cooled lentils with the chopped veggies.

For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the salad and mix gently. Let it sit for a bit to let the flavors blend.

This salad is best served cold and can be made ahead of time. It’s a great dish for picnics or barbecues. Enjoy the fresh taste of summer with every bite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup chopped parsley
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup diced cucumbers
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse and soak lentils for 8 hours or overnight.
2. Boil lentils in water for 20-25 minutes until tender.
3. Chill the cooked lentils in the fridge.
4. Chop parsley, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
5. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix chilled lentils with veggies.
7. Pour dressing over salad and combine gently.

4) Tangy Spicy Lentil Tacos

Tangy spicy lentil tacos are a great summer dish. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. You will enjoy the combination of spices and fresh ingredients.

Start by cooking lentils with your favorite seasonings. Use taco seasoning for an extra kick. While the lentils cook, prepare your toppings. Chopped tomatoes, lettuce, and avocado work well.

Warm your tortillas in a pan or the oven. You can toast them at 350°F (175°C) until they are slightly crispy. Once everything is ready, assemble your tacos. Fill the tortillas with lentils and add your toppings.

Serve with salsa or guacamole for added flavor. These tacos are perfect for summer gatherings. They are healthy, delicious, and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Salsa (optional)
• Guacamole (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook lentils according to the package instructions.
2. Stir in taco seasoning once lentils are tender.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Warm tortillas in the oven for 5-7 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos by adding lentils and toppings.
6. Serve with salsa or guacamole if desired.

5) Lentil and Vegetable Kebabs

Lentil and vegetable kebabs are a tasty and healthy choice for summer meals. They are packed with protein and great flavors. These kebabs make for a perfect appetizer or light main dish.

To make these kebabs, you will need cooked lentils mixed with diced vegetables. Common vegetables include bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can also add spices for extra flavor.

You can bake them in the oven or grill them for a smoky taste. Baking should be done at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to keep them moist to avoid drying out.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini)
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked lentils, diced vegetables, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into kebabs.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes.

6) Lentil Hummus Dip

Lentil hummus dip is a tasty and healthy option for summer snacking. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or a quick bite at home. The creamy texture makes it great for dipping fresh veggies or spreading on bread.

To make it, start by cooking your lentils. You can use green or red lentils, both of which are nutritious. Once they’re cooked and cooled, blend them with some tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and spices.

This dip is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or red)
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• Salt to taste
• Cumin (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook lentils according to package instructions until soft.
2. Allow the lentils to cool.
3. In a blender, combine lentils, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
4. Blend until smooth. Add cumin for extra flavor if desired.
5. Serve with fresh vegetables or pita bread.

7) Lentil Quinoa Pilaf

Lentil quinoa pilaf is a tasty and healthy dish perfect for summer. It’s light but filling, making it a great choice for any meal.

Start by rinsing your lentils, quinoa, and rice. This helps remove any dust and keeps your dish clean. Cook these together for a nutritious base.

You can add flavors with onions, garlic, and herbs like thyme. These ingredients bring out the best taste in your pilaf.

Feel free to include vegetables like carrots and celery for added color and nutrients.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also very versatile. You can enjoy it as a side or as a main dish.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup lentils
• 1 cup rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse quinoa, lentils, and rice in cold water.
2. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
3. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
4. Stir in rinsed quinoa, lentils, and rice.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until cooked.
7. Fluff with a fork and season with salt, pepper, and thyme before serving.

8) Summer Lentil Ratatouille

Summer lentil ratatouille is a colorful and nutritious dish. It’s full of fresh vegetables and protein-rich lentils, making it perfect for hot days.

To start, gather your favorite summer vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes. These will add flavor and texture to your meal.

You will cook the lentils separately. Combine them with vegetables and herbs for a delicious mix.

Drizzle olive oil for richness and season with salt and pepper.

Serve it warm or let it cool for a refreshing side. You can even pair it with grains like quinoa or rice for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 2-3 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils and cook them in 3 cups of water for about 20 minutes, until soft.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
4. Stir in the eggplant, zucchini, and tomatoes.
5. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
6. Mix in the cooked lentils and season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

9) Mexican Lentil Salsa

Mexican Lentil Salsa is a fresh and tasty dish that’s perfect for summer. It combines wholesome lentils with vibrant salsa flavors. This recipe is nutritious and easy to make.

To start, you’ll need steamed lentils. They are simple to prepare and provide a protein boost.

Mix the lentils with fresh Mexican salsa for a zesty taste. You can add olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Serve the lentil salsa with tortilla chips for a delightful snack or appetizer. It’s colorful, healthy, and satisfying. This dish is great for gatherings or just a snack at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup steamed lentils
• 1 cup fresh Mexican salsa
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Tortilla chips for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Place the steamed lentils in a mixing bowl.
2. Add fresh Mexican salsa to the lentils.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix well and serve with tortilla chips. Enjoy!

10) Herbed Lentil Patties

Herbed lentil patties are a delicious and healthy option for summer meals. They are easy to make and full of flavor. You can enjoy them on their own or in a lettuce wrap.

To start, cook lentils until they are tender. Mix them with herbs, spices, and breadcrumbs.

Form small patties from the mixture.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil, then cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown.

For a tasty twist, serve the patties with a side of fresh salad or in a bun. They are perfect for picnics or barbecues.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook lentils until they are tender.
2. In a bowl, mix lentils, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
5. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.