As the temperature rises, our bodies crave lighter, cooler meals that still pack a punch. And what better way to satisfy this craving than with a delicious and nutritious lentil recipe? Lentils are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when paired with fresh summer ingredients like cucumbers, mangoes, and tomatoes, they become a truly delightful addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 refreshing summer lentil recipes that will quench your thirst for something new and exciting.
From classic salads to innovative salsas and dips, these recipes showcase the versatility of lentils in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, let’s get started and explore the world of summer lentil recipes!
Cold Lentil and Cucumber Salad with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing cold lentil salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. The combination of cooked lentils, crunchy cucumber, and tangy lemon dressing makes it a great option for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, diced cucumber, and chopped parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a cold salad)
Spicy Summer Lentil and Mango Salsa
This refreshing summer salsa combines the creamy texture of cooked lentils with the sweetness of ripe mango, all tied together with a spicy kick from jalapeños. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip for crudités.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked green or brown lentils
– 2 cups diced fresh mango
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked lentils, mango, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Stir in cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Grilled Vegetable and Lentil Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your pepper game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of lentils and grilled vegetables. Perfect as a main dish or side, these stuffed peppers are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup mixed grilled vegetables (such as zucchini, mushrooms, eggplant, and red onion)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut off tops of peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked lentils, grilled vegetables, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the lentil mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with foil.
6. Grill for 20-25 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Lentil and Tomato Gazpacho
Beat the heat with this light and flavorful gazpacho, perfect for a summer evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the nutty flavor of lentils in a refreshing and healthy soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in the olive oil and stir to combine.
3. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and blend until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Avocado Quinoa Bowl with Lime Vinaigrette
This vibrant bowl combines the creamy texture of avocado, the nutty flavor of quinoa, and the earthy taste of lentils, all tied together with a zesty lime vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick and nutritious meal or as a packed lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa and lentils according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, and lime juice. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, lentils, and diced avocado.
4. Pour the lime vinaigrette over the top and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cooling Lentil and Yogurt Dip with Fresh Herbs
A refreshing and healthy dip perfect for hot summer days, this Cooling Lentil and Yogurt Dip with Fresh Herbs is a great accompaniment to your favorite vegetables, pita chips, or crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, or dill) for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked lentils, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
4. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation only)
Lentil and Watermelon Feta Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the sweetness of watermelon and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, diced watermelon, and crumbled feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle chopped fresh mint leaves over the top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Summer Lentil Pasta Salad with Basil Pesto
This refreshing pasta salad is perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish for your next BBQ or potluck. The combination of cooked lentils, al dente pasta, and flavorful basil pesto creates a delicious and healthy dish that’s easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. basil pesto
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with olive oil and basil pesto until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Zucchini Fritters with Mint Yogurt Sauce
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the goodness of lentils and zucchinis with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
– Yogurt (plain or flavored) for Mint Yogurt Sauce
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked lentils, grated zucchini, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the lentil mixture into the hot oil. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain fritters on paper towels. Serve hot with Mint Yogurt Sauce (mix plain yogurt with fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice).
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Olives and Feta
This vibrant salad combines the creamy richness of lentils with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring Kalamata olives and crumbly feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
2. Add garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep: 10 min, cooking: 5 min)
Spiced Lentil and Peach Summer Wraps
Perfect for a light and refreshing summer meal or snack, these Spiced Lentil and Peach Summer Wraps are packed with flavor and texture. A blend of cooked lentils, sweet peaches, and warm spices wrapped in a crispy whole wheat tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked red or green lentils
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional: avocado, feta cheese, or cilantro for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked lentils, diced peaches, olive oil, sliced onion, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Lay out a whole wheat tortilla and spoon about 1/4 cup of the lentil mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lentil and Corn Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of lentils with sweet corn, crunchy cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked lentils, corn kernels, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! Just combine and chill.
Lentil-Stuffed Grilled Eggplant with Tahini Drizzle
Eggplants take center stage in this flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish, packed with creamy lentils and topped with a rich tahini drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced (for drizzle)
– Optional: paprika or red pepper flakes for added color
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice eggplants in half lengthwise and brush with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill eggplants for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, mix cooked lentils with parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each eggplant half with the lentil mixture.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic for the drizzle.
7. Serve grilled eggplants with the tahini drizzle and garnish with paprika or red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lentil and Cherry Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and colorful bruschetta recipe, featuring tender lentils and sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils (cooled)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the lentil-tomato mixture over toasted bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Lentil and Spinach Stuffed Flatbreads
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional flatbreads, this recipe combines the warmth of lentils with the freshness of spinach and herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 flatbreads (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, spinach, feta cheese (if using), olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a spoonful of the lentil mixture onto each flatbread, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the flatbreads in half to enclose the filling.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the flatbreads are crispy and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lentil and Arugula Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This hearty salad combines the nutritional benefits of lentils with the peppery flavor of arugula, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, arugula leaves, and chopped red onion.
2. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and serve.
Balsamic Glaze Recipe:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened to desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus time to cook lentils)
Cool Lentil and Radish Slaw with Lemon Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the crunch of radishes, all tied together with a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy side dish or topping for your favorite sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 2 cups thinly sliced red radish
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sliced radish, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Lentil and Pineapple Coconut Curry for Summer Nights
As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, this flavorful curry is the perfect comfort food to savor with family and friends. The combination of tender lentils, sweet pineapple, and creamy coconut milk will transport you to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and cooked pineapple. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add coconut milk to the pan and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Combine cooked lentils with the coconut-based sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these delightful and refreshing lentil recipes! From cooling salads like Cold Lentil and Cucumber Salad to zesty salsas like Spicy Summer Lentil and Mango, there’s something for everyone. Grilled Vegetable and Lentil Stuffed Peppers make for a satisfying main dish, while quinoa bowls and dips provide lighter options. With flavors ranging from Mediterranean to spicy and sweet, these 18 summer lentil recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and keep you feeling refreshed all season long.
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