Description
These crispy lentils are the easiest meal prep staple! With just three simple ingredients, plain lentils transform into lightly crisp, savory bites that are perfect for sprinkling on salads, grain bowls, pasta, tacos and more. Vegan and gluten-free!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 (15-ounce) cans brown or black lentils, drained, rinsed and patted dry (dry very well for best results)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F, or 400°F if using a ceramic-coated nonstick sheet pan (such as Caraway). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
- Rinse and drain the lentils. Spread them on a clean kitchen towel, place a second towel on top, and gently pat until very dry.
- Place the lentils on a large sheet pan or two small sheetpans and toss with the avocado oil and salt until evenly coated.
- Spread the lentils in a single, even layer. Do not use parchment paper. Leave space between the lentils so they do not overlap.
- Bake on the middle rack for 17-20 minutes until lightly crisp. If using black lentils, check at 15-17 minutes, as black lentils are smaller and finish sooner.
- Remove from the oven and let the lentils cool undisturbed in a single layer for at least 15 minutes. They will continue to crisp as they cool.
- Taste and add additional salt if desired. Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Notes
- Drying the lentils thoroughly before roasting is essential for crispiness. Handle them gently while drying, as they are delicate.
- Both cans can be the same variety of lentil (all brown or all black) if preferred. Do not use red lentils.
- For flavor variations, toss the lentils with 1-2 teaspoons of a spice blend (taco seasoning, curry powder, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning or barbecue seasoning) along with the oil and salt before roasting.
- Store cooled lentils in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fairly crispy and do not get soggy.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Breakfast or Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American