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 lentils; 1 onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours and drained; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 clove garlic; Water, as needed for consistency; Salt to taste; 2 cups spinach, wilted; Lemon zest for garnish; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Daily Kitchen

I absolutely love creating wholesome meals that satisfy both the palate and the body. This Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl is a perfect example of that. Not only is it vibrant and refreshing, but it also packs a punch with protein and fiber from the lentils. The zesty lemon dressing balances beautifully with the creamy elements, making this dish a delightful choice for lunch or dinner. Whether for meal prep or entertaining friends, it's bound to impress with its delicious flavors and bright colors.

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:17:35.565Z

When I first discovered the combination of lemon and lentils, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon enhances the earthiness of the lentils, creating a well-rounded dish that's both healthy and comforting. I experimented with different herbs and spices, but I found that keeping it simple allows the lemon to shine through.

This Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl is my go-to when I need a nutritious meal that's easy to prepare. The creaminess comes from a simple cashew sauce that elevates the dish, offering a velvety texture that complements the lentils perfectly. I promise it will be a hit!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Creamy texture from the cashew sauce that brings it all together
Nutritious, packed with protein and fiber for a healthy meal

      

Versatile Lentils

Green lentils are the star of this dish, offering not only a hearty texture but also essential nutrients. Their firm structure ensures they hold up well during cooking, making them ideal for this creamy bowl. When simmering, keep an eye on them; they should soften yet retain a slight bite. This texture creates a delightful contrast with the smooth cashew sauce, elevating each bite with a mix of crunch and creaminess.

If green lentils aren’t available, you can substitute them with brown lentils. Just note that they cook in a little less time and may turn out slightly softer. It’s essential to adjust the cooking time to maintain a pleasing texture in your bowl.

Crafting the Cashew Sauce

The cashew sauce provides a rich creaminess that balances the bright lemony notes perfectly. Soaking the cashews before blending is crucial; it helps soften them and aids in creating a silky smooth texture. Aim for at least four hours of soaking, or overnight, for the best results. If you're in a rush, using hot water for a quicker soak can work too—just 30 minutes will suffice.

When blending, start with less water and gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency. This will help you control the thickness of the sauce, making it easier to drizzle over your lentil bowl. A food processor works well if you do not have a high-speed blender, but be sure to blend thoroughly to avoid chunks.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl gets even more exciting when you play around with toppings. Consider adding a sprinkle of roasted nuts for a crunchy contrast or a handful of cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness. Sliced avocado also makes a luxurious addition, boosting the fat content and adding to the richness of the overall dish.

For meal prep, you can store the lentil mixture separately from the cashew sauce. Both can be refrigerated for up to five days, maintaining their flavors and textures. Just reheat the lentils on the stove or in the microwave, and freshen up the cashew sauce with a splash of water to bring it back to life before serving.

Ingredients

For the Lentils

1 cup green lentils
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cashew Sauce

1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours and drained
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic
Water, as needed for consistency
Salt to taste

For Assembly

2 cups spinach, wilted
Lemon zest for garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine the green lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Prepare the Cashew Sauce

In a blender, combine soaked and drained cashews, lemon juice, garlic, and some water. Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to reach desired consistency. Season with salt.

Combine and Serve

Once the lentils are cooked, fold in the wilted spinach. To serve, spoon a generous portion of the lentil mixture into bowls, drizzle with cashew sauce, and garnish with lemon zest and fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For a nut-free version, you can substitute the cashew sauce with tahini or yogurt.

Storage Tips

To preserve the flavor and freshness of your Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl, opt for airtight containers. Store the cooled lentil mixture and cashew sauce separately in the fridge for optimal freshness. Lentils can be stored for up to five days, while the cashew sauce can be used within four days. This separation helps maintain the creamy texture of the cashew sauce when reheating.

If you prefer long-term storage, both components freeze well. The lentils can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. The cashew sauce can also be frozen, but be aware it may require some stirring after thawing, as it can separate slightly.

Cooking Equipment

For this recipe, a medium saucepan works well for cooking the lentils, allowing ample space for them to cook evenly. When preparing the cashew sauce, a high-speed blender or a powerful food processor is essential for achieving a silky smooth texture. If you're using a standard blender, ensure you soak the cashews long enough to make blending easier and to avoid any gritty texture.

A good quality vegetable broth enhances the flavors, so consider using homemade broth if you have it on hand. It gives the lentils a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish, working beautifully with the zesty lemon and creamy cashew elements.

Flavor Enhancements

To take your Creamy Lemon Lentil Bowl to the next level, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne to the lentils for a hint of smokiness or spice. This extra layer of flavor complements the lemon zest beautifully and adds complexity to the dish without overpowering it.

Another way to customize the dish is by incorporating seasonal vegetables. Roasting some seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus and folding them into the lentils not only adds extra nutrition but also a burst of color and sweetness to your bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The lentils and cashew sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What if I don’t have green lentils?

You can use other types of lentils, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Red lentils will cook faster and become softer.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, the lentil mixture freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. The cashew sauce can also be frozen separately.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

Feel free to add grilled chicken, sautéed tofu, or chickpeas to enhance the protein content of the dish.