If you’re wondering how to cook lentils, look no further!

Lentilsare one of those secret-weapon ingredients.

But beyond their nutritive value, lentils are, quite simply, delicious!

different types of lentils on grid surface

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Le Puy or French Green Lentils

These slate-colored lentils are ideal for salads.

They have a nutty flavor and retain their shape when cooked.

Have some on hand?

Organic Le Puy lentils dry seeds close-up

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The skins are thin, so they can also be pureed if you prefer a smooth soup.

Another benefit is you might season them yourself.

They may also have added salt, something to watch for particularly if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Black lentils up-close

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you might also sometimes find vacuum-sealed cooked lentils, which have a more al dente texture than canned.

Lentils will last in your pantry for up to a year before they begin to get tough.

They will still be edible, but will take longer to get tender and may taste a bit bland.

Close up of dry lentils texture on large background

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Tips for Cooking Lentils

  • You do not need to soak lentils before cooking them.

Are Lentils Healthy?

Lentils are a nutrient-dense food, rich in both protein and fiber.

Brown Lentils Up-Close

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Lentils are also high in the B vitaminfolate, a particularly important nutrient for pregnant and lactating women.

Scroll down for more instructions.

Scroll down for more instructions.

Split Red Lentils Background-Photographed on a Canon EOS-1 Mark 3

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How to Cook Lentils in a Pressure Cooker

Pressure cookers are great for speeding up lentil cooking.

As for the stovetop, pick through for debris, and rinse well.

(You may not need to drain red lentils.)

Tips

Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient.