Simmered Green Lentils

Name: Simmered Green Lentils
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green lentils; 3 cups water; 1 tsp salt; 1 bay leaf, optional; 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp minced fresh herbs, such as basil, dill, tarragon, parsley, or chives, optional; salt and pepper to taste

Simmered green lentils are a straightforward, protein-packed side dish made by gently cooking lentils with water, salt, and optional herbs until tender. This basic method works for brown lentils too and forms the foundation for salads, soups, and grain bowls.

⚡Slow Cooker

🥗Vegetarian 🏷️Green lentils 🏷️Protein 🏷️Dinner 🏷️Lunch

Total

50 min

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$16–$26

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From Recette Magazine

Ingredients

1 cup green lentils
3 cups water
1 tsp salt
1 bay leafoptional
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp minced fresh herbs, such as basil, dill, tarragon, parsley, or chivesoptional
salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1
Rinse 1 cup lentils and place in a Suvie rice pot (black handles) with 3 cups water and 1 tsp salt. Add 1 bay leaf, if using, cover pot with lid, and place inside the Suvie Starch Cooker, ensuring pot is centered on the hot plate. Input settings and cook now. Slow Cook, High, 45 minutes.
2
After cooking, drain lentils thoroughly and remove bay leaf. Transfer lentils to a serving bowl and season to taste with salt and pepper. Drizzle lentils with 2 tsp olive oil, garnish with herbs, and serve.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Add salt to the cooking water from the start—it seasons the lentils evenly and does not make them tough.
Use a bay leaf during simmering for subtle aromatic flavor; remove it before serving or adding to other dishes.
Do not overcook; green lentils should be tender but still maintain their shape. Start checking at 25 minutes.
Stir in fresh herbs and olive oil after cooking to preserve their bright flavor and aroma.

Substitutions

Brown lentils → green lentils (similar cooking time; brown lentils may be slightly softer)
Fresh herbs → dried herbs (use one-third the amount; add during simmering rather than at the end)
Extra virgin olive oil → neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil (if you prefer a milder taste)

Storage & make-ahead

Store cooled lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water, or serve cold in salads and grain bowls.

Common Questions

How long do green lentils take to cook?

Green lentils typically simmer for 25–30 minutes until tender but still holding their shape. Brown lentils may take slightly longer.

Can I use brown lentils instead of green?

Yes. Brown lentils work well with this method and may require a few extra minutes of cooking time. Adjust based on how soft you prefer them.

Do I need to soak green lentils before cooking?

No. Green lentils do not require soaking. Simply rinse them, add to water with salt, and simmer.

What herbs work best with simmered lentils?

Basil, dill, tarragon, parsley, and chives all pair well. Add them near the end of cooking to preserve their fresh flavor, or use a bay leaf during simmering for subtle depth.

How should I store leftover cooked lentils?

Transfer cooled lentils to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water, or use cold in salads.