As the weather cools down and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup or stew to cozy up with. And what better way to do that than with a hearty serving of French lentils? These humble legumes are packed with nutrients and have a rich, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with an array of ingredients.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different French lentil recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic soups and stews to innovative salads and casseroles, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or bold and spicy flavors, these recipes will show you the many ways in which French lentils can be used as the foundation for a delicious meal.
Stay tuned for our first recipe, featuring the comforting combination of garlic and thyme…
French Lentil Soup with Garlic and Thyme
This classic French soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich flavors and tender lentils, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils, broth, onion, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Warm French Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Warm French Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables: A hearty and comforting salad that combines tender lentils with roasted vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. While lentils cook, toss onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
4. Drain cooked lentils and add to roasted vegetables. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy French Lentil and Spinach Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the freshness of spinach, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the lentils, broth, and spinach leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Lentil and Sausage Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of French lentils with sweet Italian sausage, perfect for a cold winter’s night. A simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lentils according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked lentils and sausage mixture. Top with Gruyère cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herbed French Lentil and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this Herbed French Lentil and Mushroom Risotto is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of sautéed mushrooms, fragrant herbs, and tender lentils makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup dried French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add lentils, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with the vegetables and herbs.
5. Warm broth and add 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
French Lentil and Caramelized Onion Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Spread cooked lentils evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
6. Top with caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese (if using).
7. Fold pastry edges up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy French Lentil and Tomato Curry
This recipe combines the warmth of French lentils with the bold flavors of Indian spices and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, resulting in a hearty and aromatic curry perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Lentil and Kale Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of France with the simplicity of stuffed peppers. Red bell peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of cooked lentils, wilted kale, and aromatic spices, perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 red bell peppers
– 1 cup cooked French green lentils
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, chopped kale, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until kale is wilted.
5. Stuff each pepper with the lentil-kale mixture and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
French Lentil and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
French Lentil and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie: A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic dish, this recipe combines the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes with the earthy goodness of French lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Meanwhile, bake the sweet potato for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
5. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the mashed potatoes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. To assemble, spread the lentil mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by the sweet potato slices and topped with the mashed potatoes.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
French Lentil and Goat Cheese Stuffed Eggplant
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of eggplant with the creamy richness of goat cheese and the comforting warmth of French lentils. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressive dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1 cup cooked French lentils
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked lentils, crumbled goat cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each eggplant half with the lentil mixture, dividing it evenly among the four halves.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
French Lentil and Bacon Stew with Crusty Bread
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of French flavors, combining tender lentils, crispy bacon, and aromatic spices. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve the stew hot with crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
French Lentil and Beetroot Salad with Feta
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the earthy sweetness of beets and lentils with the tanginess of crumbled feta. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender, about 20 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sliced beets, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
French Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of France with the warm spices of North Africa, making it a perfect dish for a chilly evening. With its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Scoop the roasted squash flesh into the pot and blend until smooth.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
French Lentil and Rosemary Focaccia
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful French-inspired focaccia recipe, featuring the rich flavors of lentils and rosemary. Perfect for a quick snack or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup cooked French green lentils
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, chopped onion, cooked lentils, rosemary, salt, and sugar to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong focaccia. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Lentil and Walnut Pâté
This rich and creamy pâté is a French classic, made with red lentils, walnuts, and a hint of garlic. Serve it on crackers or toast points for a sophisticated snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cognac (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the lentils, walnuts, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the cognac (if using) and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a blender or food processor.
6. Blend until smooth, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Lentil and Leek Gratin
French Lentil and Leek Gratin: A hearty, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This gratin combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the subtle sweetness of caramelized leeks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine lentils, leeks, butter, onion, garlic, wine (if using), and broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cheese is golden brown.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
French Lentil and Chorizo Paella
This French-inspired paella combines the rich flavors of chorizo with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chorizo; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, chicken broth, water, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Lentil and Avocado Buddha Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with tender lentils, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions or simmer in water/broth for 20-25 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Divide the mixture among bowls. Top with diced avocado and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Lentil and Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette Salad
This salad combines the comforting warmth of French lentils with the tangy zip of Dijon mustard, all tied together with a light and refreshing vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great for potlucks and picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a medium saucepan with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, olive oil, vinegar, and honey.
3. Drain the cooked lentils and let them cool slightly. Add the vinaigrette mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Lentil and Smoked Paprika Hummus
Elevate your hummus game with the addition of French lentils and smoked paprika, adding depth and complexity to this popular dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried French green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and place them in a medium saucepan with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked lentils, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, and salt.
4. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 delicious French lentil recipes, perfect for a chilly night in. From hearty soups and stews to flavorful salads and casseroles, these dishes are sure to warm your belly and your heart. Try French Lentil Soup with Garlic and Thyme, Warm French Lentil Salad with Roasted Vegetables, or Creamy French Lentil and Spinach Stew for a comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. Whatever the occasion, there’s a French lentil recipe on this list to satisfy your cravings.
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