Try a new twist on a popular favorite meal with these incredibleLentil Tacos. This plant-based dish is easy to make, full of flavor, and great for busy weeknights!

homemade lentil tacos on round plates with salsa and cilantro on the side.

Lentils are probably the last thing you think of when it comes to taco Tuesday, but these seasoned lentils will take your taco night to the next level! Seasoned to perfection, these savory lentils make a great substitute for ground beef and are packed full of nutrients. With the cost of beef so high, it is nice to have a low-cost alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

We love being able to customize our lentil tacos however we want. Setting out a variety of taco toppings allows everyone to create their own unique dish. Whether you serve your lentils as tacos, burrito bowls, or spoon them over nachos, they are sure to be a hit!

If you are looking for more lentil recipes: I love thisHealthy Lentil ChiliandEasy Lentil Curry with Butternut Squash.Try them out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It is a great meatless option.
The lentils are seasoned to perfection and packed full of flavor.
You can top these tacos with a wide variety of ingredients.

Recipe Ingredients

Olive Oil—To cook your veggies.
Onion—You can use a white or yellow onion. Make sure it is finely chopped.
Garlic—Freshly minced.
Brown Lentils—Can be found near the rice at most major grocery stores.
Vegetable Stock—To help cook the lentils.
Spice Blend—A flavorful combination of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
Salsa—Use your favorite brand or make your own!
Taco Toppings—A combination of your favorite taco toppings.

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to Make Lentil Tacos

portion bowls each with raw ingredients to make easy lentil taco recipe.

Step #1.Saute diced onion in olive oil. When the onion starts to soften, add the garlic and continue sauteing until fragrant.

Step #2.Stir in dry lentils, vegetable stock, chili powder, salt, cumin, and smoked paprika.

Step #3.Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until lentils are tender.Stir in salsa.

Step #4.Top with lettuce, diced tomatoes and cheese. Serve and enjoy!

Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my lentils are done cooking?

Lentils have a similar cooking process to rice, and will have a somewhat similar texture when they are finished cooking. Your lentils should have very little to no crunch when they are finished cooking. If they are still a little firm after the allotted cooking time then you can add a splash or water and allow them to continue cooking for another 10 minutes. Older lentils tend to need a little longer than fresh lentils.

Where can I find lentils?

The exact location of lentils will vary depending on your grocery store; however, you can typically find them on the same aisle as dry rice and beans. They can usually be found right next to the large bags of dried rice. You can also find lentils at most international food markets.

Serving Suggestions

We love setting out a variety of toppings buffet style so that everyone in the family can assemble their own lentil tacos. Some of our favorite toppings include shredded lettuce, cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, guacamole, jalapenos oreasy blender salsa. You really can’t go wrong, so get creative with what you throw on top of your tacos! You can also omit the tortilla and serve these lentils as a “burrito bowl”.

How to Store Your Leftover Lentils

If you have any leftover lentils then you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I like to reheat a small bowl of lentils in the microwave for about 1 ½ minutes, or until warm. Make sure you stop and stir your lentils halfway through so that they reheat evenly and are not cold in the middle.

Expert Tips

Make sure you check your lentilsto ensure they are no longer firm before serving them.
You can use store bought salsa or make your own homemade salsa.
Don’t worry about rinsing your lentils. They can be added to the pot directly from the bag.
You can substitute the spice blend for a premade packet of taco seasoning.
Lentil tacos are a great option if you are looking for something that is easy to make ahead of time. Add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook until the lentils are tender (high for about 3-4 hours and low for 7-8 hours).