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Black lentils—also known as beluga lentils—are one of my favorite pantry staples. They hold their shape when cooked, have a rich, earthy flavor, and are packed with protein and fiber. I use them in everything from cozy soups to hearty salads and even the occasional veggie burger. They cook fairly quickly and always add a little more depth than your usual lentils.
If you’ve got a bag sitting in the cupboard and aren’t sure what to do with it, this list is full of simple, tasty ways to use black lentils for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. You’ll find warm comfort foods and fresh, colorful options too—all tried and tested.
1. Black Lentil Salad with Feta and Herbs
This salad is fresh, filling, and one I keep on rotation. I toss cooked black lentils with crumbled feta, chopped parsley, red onion, and a lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s perfect cold or at room temp.
Author’s Note
Let the lentils cool slightly before adding the feta—it keeps it from melting and turning mushy.
Get the Black Lentil Salad with Feta and Herbs recipe.
2. Creamy Coconut Black Lentil Curry
I simmer black lentils with garlic, ginger, curry spices, and coconut milk. It’s thick, flavorful, and super cozy—especially served over rice or with naan.
Author’s Note
Add a splash of lime juice at the end to brighten the dish and balance the richness of the coconut milk.
Get the Creamy Coconut Black Lentil Curry recipe.
3. Black Lentil Soup with Spinach
This is my go-to soup when I need something hearty but healthy. It’s loaded with lentils, diced tomatoes, garlic, and a handful of baby spinach. It’s great on its own or with crusty bread.
Author’s Note
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, more savory flavor—it makes a difference.
Get the Black Lentil Soup with Spinach recipe.
4. Black Lentil and Roasted Veggie Bowl
I roast sweet potatoes, zucchini, and red bell peppers, then pile them over black lentils with tahini dressing. It’s colorful, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep.
Author’s Note
Drizzle the veggies with olive oil and a little cumin before roasting—it gives them extra warmth and flavor.
Get the Black Lentil and Roasted Veggie Bowl recipe.
5. Black Lentil Tacos
These are a fun, meat-free twist on taco night. I sauté black lentils with onion, garlic, and taco seasoning, then serve them in warm tortillas with avocado, slaw, and a squeeze of lime.
Author’s Note
Cook the lentils until they’re just tender—not mushy. They hold up better and give the tacos a great texture.
Get the Black Lentil Tacos recipe.
6. Black Lentil and Tomato Stew
This one’s warm and rustic. I simmer black lentils with canned tomatoes, garlic, onion, and a few bay leaves. It thickens naturally and makes a great base for a cozy dinner.
Author’s Note
Stir in a knob of butter or olive oil at the end for added richness and a silkier texture.
Get the Black Lentil and Tomato Stew recipe.
7. Black Lentil and Quinoa Power Bowl
I combine black lentils and quinoa with roasted veggies, chopped kale, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s packed with protein and perfect for lunch or light dinner.
Author’s Note
Massage the kale with a little olive oil and lemon juice before adding—it softens the texture and boosts flavor.
Get the Black Lentil and Quinoa Power Bowl recipe.
8. Black Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
For a hearty vegetarian version of a classic, I use black lentils in place of ground meat, simmered with carrots, onions, and peas, then topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked.
Author’s Note
Let the filling thicken slightly before adding the mashed potatoes so it doesn’t turn soupy in the oven.
Get the Black Lentil Shepherd’s Pie recipe.
9. Black Lentil Hummus
I blend cooked black lentils with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It’s a darker, nuttier twist on traditional hummus and pairs great with pita chips or raw veggies.
Author’s Note
Save a few whole lentils to sprinkle on top with a drizzle of olive oil before serving—it adds texture and a pretty finish.
Get the Black Lentil Hummus recipe.
10. Spicy Black Lentil Chili
I simmer black lentils with crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. It’s thick, smoky, and just spicy enough. I usually top it with sour cream and avocado.
Author’s Note
A spoonful of cocoa powder or dark chocolate adds depth and rounds out the heat without tasting sweet.
Get the Spicy Black Lentil Chili recipe.
11. Black Lentil and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
I mix cooked lentils with sautéed mushrooms, herbs, and rice, then stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake. It’s filling and full of savory flavor.
Author’s Note
Add a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty finish.
Get the Black Lentil and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers recipe.
12. Black Lentil Breakfast Hash
I sauté onions, potatoes, and spinach with cooked black lentils and top it all with a fried or poached egg. It’s a hearty, protein-rich breakfast that also works great for brunch.
Author’s Note
Crisp up the potatoes first and add the lentils at the end so they stay firm and don’t overcook.
Get the Black Lentil Breakfast Hash recipe.
13. Black Lentil Pasta Toss
I toss black lentils with pasta, roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a quick, meatless dinner that’s rich in flavor and texture.
Author’s Note
Save some pasta water to mix with the lentils—it helps coat everything evenly and keeps it from drying out.
Get the Black Lentil Pasta Toss recipe.
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