Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl

Name: Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach, fresh; Zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Water to thin; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl for lunch or dinner! The bright, zesty flavors of lemon paired with the richness of lentils create a dish that’s not only satisfying but incredibly refreshing. Plus, it's super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I find that the creaminess from the tahini dressing elevates every bite and brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re meal prepping or entertaining guests, this bowl is definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Francesca Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:21:35.585Z

When I first created this Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl, I was looking for a healthy yet indulgent meal that I could enjoy at any time of day. The combination of lentils and lemon not only gives it a fantastic flavor but also provides a nutritious punch. I’ve experimented with various seasonings, and I've found that the right balance of herbs makes all the difference!

One tip I have is to let the lentils cook gently; the slower they cook, the creamier they become. This way, they absorb all the delicious lemon zest and herbs, building layers of flavor that truly elevate the dish. Serve it warm or chilled—it’s delightful either way!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up your meal
Creamy texture that’s both satisfying and healthy
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins

The Role of Lentils

Lentils are the star of this Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl, providing a hearty base packed with protein and fiber. They absorb the flavors of the broth and aromatics beautifully, making every bite satisfying. Opt for green or brown lentils as they hold their shape during cooking, adding a pleasant texture to the dish. If you're looking to scale the recipe, remember that one cup of dry lentils generally yields about two cups of cooked lentils, which is perfect for meal prep or larger gatherings.

When cooking lentils, maintaining the right simmer is key. A high boil can cause them to break apart and become mushy. Keep an eye on the pot and adjust the heat as necessary, allowing them to gently bubble away until tender yet firm—a texture that complements the creaminess of the tahini dressing wonderfully.

Customizing Your Bowl

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Consider incorporating roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even shredded carrots for added color and nutrition. If you want a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier, ensuring a satisfying meal any time of day.

Another great way to customize this dish is through the tahini dressing. If you prefer a creamier profile, you can increase the tahini and reduce the liquid slightly. For those who enjoy a kick, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha can elevate the flavor in an exciting way.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl is a fantastic option for meal prepping. The lentil mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners. The flavors will continue to meld together as it sits, enhancing the overall taste experience. Just remember to keep the tahini dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain its fresh flavor and consistency.

If you're looking to freeze portions, simply allow the lentil mixture to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain the creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a truly delicious Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl!

For the Bowl

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, fresh
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing

1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Water to thin
Salt to taste

Once you have gathered all your ingredients, you can proceed to make this delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl:

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Stir

Add the cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, spinach, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and enough water to reach your desired dressing consistency. Season with salt to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the lentil mixture into bowls and drizzle with the tahini dressing. Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl warm or chilled!

Enjoy your delicious bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra punch, try adding some fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the lentil mixture before serving. You can also toss in some roasted vegetables for added texture.

Enhancing Flavor

To really elevate the flavors in your Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl, consider the incorporation of fresh herbs. Adding chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving can provide brightness and a lovely aroma that complements the lemon. You can also garnish the dish with toasted seeds or nuts, such as pumpkin seeds or slivered almonds, for added crunch and nutrition.

Don't overlook the importance of seasoning at different stages. Adding salt while sautéing the onions and garlic helps to draw out their sweetness and create a more aromatic base. Similarly, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as you go will lead to a more balanced final dish.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl, I enjoy pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tahini dressing. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrients.

If you're entertaining, consider creating a 'make-your-own' bowl bar. Set out the lentil mixture, tahini dressing, and a variety of toppings so guests can customize their bowls. This interactive approach not only makes serving easier but also engages your guests and sparks conversation about flavor combinations!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use red or yellow lentils, but the cooking time may vary. Red lentils will cook faster and become softer.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for tahini?

Tahini is already vegan, but if you're looking for alternatives, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions to boost the protein content.