Yellow Lentils (Canned, Drained)
Lens culinarisClinical Encyclopedia
Canned yellow lentils are a convenient source of plant-based protein and fiber, providing essential nutrients while being low in fat. They are versatile and can be easily incorporated into various dishes.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Rinse before use to reduce sodium content. Can be added to soups, salads, or blended into dips.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose cans that are free from dents or rust, and check the expiration date.
Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. After opening, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
Provide antioxidant effects that may reduce inflammation.
"Lentils are one of the oldest cultivated crops, dating back over 9,000 years."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Spicy Yellow Lentil Tacos
These vibrant tacos are filled with spiced yellow lentils, fresh veggies, and topped with a zesty avocado crema for a nutritious twist on a classic dish.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 corn tortillas
- 1 avocado
- 1 lime
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add drained lentils, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes until heated through.
- 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
- 3. In a blender, combine avocado, lime juice, and cilantro to make the crema. Blend until smooth.
- 4. Assemble the tacos by placing lentils on tortillas, topping with diced tomatoes, and drizzling with avocado crema.
Yellow Lentil Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing salad featuring yellow lentils, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette that’s perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1. In a large bowl, combine drained lentils, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Creamy Yellow Lentil Soup
This comforting soup blends yellow lentils with coconut milk and spices for a creamy, nutritious meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- 2. Add turmeric, drained lentils, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- 3. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Season with salt and serve warm.
Yellow Lentil and Quinoa Bowl
A hearty bowl filled with protein-rich quinoa, yellow lentils, and roasted vegetables, drizzled with a tahini dressing for a wholesome meal.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes.
- 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa and drained lentils.
- 3. In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- 4. Top the quinoa and lentil mixture with roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini dressing before serving.
Yellow Lentil Curry with Spinach
This flavorful curry combines yellow lentils and spinach in a rich coconut sauce, served over brown rice for a satisfying and healthy meal.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- 2. Stir in curry powder, then add drained lentils and coconut milk. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- 3. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt.
- 4. Serve the curry over cooked brown rice.
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Yellow Lentils
These colorful stuffed bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of yellow lentils, quinoa, and spices, baked to perfection for a nutritious meal.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup cheese (optional)
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix drained lentils, cooked quinoa, cumin, paprika, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the lentil mixture and place in a baking dish.
- 3. Top with cheese if using, and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
Yellow Lentil Hummus
A twist on traditional hummus, this yellow lentil version is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping or spreading on sandwiches.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 garlic clove
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- 1. In a food processor, combine drained lentils, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
- 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- 3. Serve with fresh veggies or pita chips.
Yellow Lentil and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry features yellow lentils and a medley of colorful vegetables, tossed in a savory sauce for a healthy weeknight dinner.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Cooked brown rice for serving
- 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1 minute.
- 2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
- 3. Stir in drained lentils and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- 4. Serve over cooked brown rice.
Yellow Lentil Fritters
These crispy fritters made from yellow lentils are packed with flavor and can be served as a snack or appetizer with a yogurt dip.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1/2 cup yogurt for dipping
- 1. In a bowl, mash drained lentils and mix in breadcrumbs, onion, egg, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Form the mixture into small patties.
- 3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties until golden brown on both sides.
- 4. Serve warm with yogurt for dipping.
Yellow Lentil and Sweet Potato Mash
A comforting mash combining yellow lentils and sweet potatoes, seasoned with herbs for a nutritious side dish that pairs well with any protein.
- 1 can yellow lentils, drained
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Boil sweet potatoes in water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
- 2. Add drained lentils, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper to the sweet potatoes.
- 3. Mash together until smooth and creamy. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are canned lentils healthy?
Yes, they are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
How do I store canned lentils?
Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days.
Can I eat canned lentils straight from the can?
Yes, but it's recommended to rinse them to reduce sodium content.
What dishes can I make with canned lentils?
You can add them to soups, salads, stews, or make lentil dips.
Are canned lentils high in sodium?
They can be, so choose low-sodium options or rinse them before use.
How much protein is in canned lentils?
Canned yellow lentils contain about 9 grams of protein per 100 grams.
Can I freeze canned lentils?
Yes, you can freeze them after cooking for up to 3 months.
Are lentils gluten-free?
Yes, lentils are naturally gluten-free.