Lentils Around the World

There’s no better time than January to celebrate “superfoods,” those ingredients praised for their remarkable health benefits. Lentils are often listed among the superfoods, thanks to a high protein, low fat nutritional profile. As a bonus they’re very inexpensive, making a great addition to soups and stews.

 

Lentils are also extremely versatile, with a mild flavor that combines well in a myriad of recipes. Try them in one of the dishes below, each inspired by a different region of the world — you may be surprised how one ingredient can produce a variety of savory results.

 

Lentil, Potato & Spinach Curry Lentils are a key ingredient in Indian cooking, and they star in this surprisingly quick and easy curry dish. Round out the meal with steamed Jasmine rice or traditional naan bread.

Lentil Salad with Feta Paired with red onions, feta cheese, roasted peppers and parsley, lentils take on a Mediterranean profile. This recipe makes a hearty side dish for fish or roasted meats.

Smoky Lentil Soup with Grown-Up Grilled Cheese Sandwiches It doesn’t get more all-American than warm soup and grilled cheese. Topped with sour cream and crispy bacon, this lentil soup is pure comfort food. Caramelized onions and peppery arugula pack flavor into the ooey gooey Grown-Up Grilled Cheese Sandwiches to accompany it.