How to Roast Lentils
Crispy roasted lentils–the most delicious plant-based protein side! How to Roast Lentils perfectly for a crispy snack, side dish, or topping.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 179kcal
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils dried (French, green, or brown)
- Drizzle of olive oil or lemon juice or balsamic vinegar
- Dash of garlic powder
- Dash of paprika
- Dash of salt-free seasoning or salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the lentils: Rinse the lentils until the water runs clear. Transfer the lentils to a saucepan with water or broth to cover by about 2 inches. Bring the water to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are al dente (firm but cooked).
- Drain the lentils using a large mesh sieve. Rinse under running cold water. Shake them in the sieve to drain well.
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Transfer the lentils to one or two large rimmed baking sheets. Add a drizzle of oil and a generous dash of garlic powder, paprika, and salt-free seasoning, if using. Toss the lentils until evenly coated.
- Roast the lentils on the upper rack for about 20 minutes, or until crispy, tossing them after 10 minutes. Check on them frequently so they do not burn.
Notes
Cook the lentils until al dente before roasting. Do not overcook them or they will not get quite as crispy. Cook them in low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water for even more flavor.
Canned lentils (previously cooked) can be used to save time but the texture from roasting is not quite as crispy. Rinse, drain, and dry them well between the layers of a kitchen towel or paper towel before using.
Seasonings: Use salt-free seasoning, salt substitute, or table salt as desired. Add garlic powder, paprika, chipotle powder, nutritional yeast, or the desired seasonings.
Spread the lentils onto a baking sheet in an even layer for best results. You may need two baking sheets.
Nutrition
Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 3mg | Fiber: 15g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 4mg
