Quick & Tasty Microwaved Lentil Recipes

Microwaved lentils recipes are a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy nutritious and delicious meals without spending too much time in the kitchen. Known for their high protein content, fiber, and essential nutrients, lentils are an excellent choice for vegetarians, vegans, or simply health-conscious individuals.

We will explore three different recipes using microwaved lentils: a quick lentil soup, a flavorful lentil salad, and a satisfying lentil curry. Each recipe is designed to be simple yet flavor-packed, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast and healthy.

Microwaved Lentil Soup

The first recipe we'll dive into is a comforting microwaved lentil soup that's as hearty as it is quick to prepare. This soup combines the goodness of lentils with a variety of aromatic vegetables and spices, resulting in a bowl full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 200 grams green lentils
• 500 ml vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 50 grams)
• 1 medium carrot, diced (about 50 grams)
• 1 stalk celery, diced (about 30 grams)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 7.5 ml olive oil
• 5 ml ground cumin
• 5 ml smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
2. Place all ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl. Stir to combine.
3. Microwave on high for 8-10 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes until the lentils are tender and the soup is hot.

Microwaved Lentil Salad

The next recipe is a refreshing microwaved lentil salad that makes an excellent side dish or light meal. This vibrant salad combines flavors of the Mediterranean with the health benefits of lentils for a satisfying, low-effort dish.

Ingredients:

• 200 grams brown lentils
• 1 medium cucumber diced (about 150 grams)
• 7.5 ml lemon juice
• 5 ml honey
• 3.75 ml olive oil
• 2.5 ml white wine vinegar
• 2.5 ml Dijon mustard
• 5 grams fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
2. Combine lentils with 400 ml of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 6-8 minutes until tender, stirring every 2 minutes.
3. While the lentils are microwaving, prepare the vinaigrette by whisking together lemon juice, honey, olive oil, vinegar, and mustard.
4. Drain any excess water from cooked lentils if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and add cucumber and parsley.
5. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to combine.

Microwaved Lentil Curry

The final recipe is a spicy microwaved lentil curry that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or naan bread. Packed with flavor from an assortment of aromatic spices, this curry is far quicker to prepare than traditional stove-top methods.

Ingredients:

• 200 grams red lentils
• 400 ml coconut milk
• 1 medium onion, grated (about 50 grams)
• 7.5 ml curry powder
• 3.75 ml ground turmeric
• 2.5 ml garlic powder
• 2.5 ml paprika
• 1 tomato, diced (about 50 grams)
• 7.5 ml olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.
2. Place all ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl, stirring until well combined.
3. Microwave on high for 6-8 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes until the curry has thickened and the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

These microwaved lentil recipes are versatile, time-saving, and packed with flavor. Perfect for meal prepping or as a quick fix on busy days when you need something both tasty and nutritious.