If you’re like me and love finding new, delicious ways to start your day, then you’re in for a treat. This Breakfast Lentils and Eggs recipe is just that good. Trust me, your days will never be dull anymore.
As I share about how each recipe happened in my kitchen, here’s the initial story of these breakfast lentils. I was feeling lazy on a Sunday morning, because who doesn’t? I also wanted to clear out some of my pantry staples. I tried experimenting with it, added different lentils I had, and then some eggs. I make it with both, fried and hard-boiled eggs. Either way, it tastes amazing.
So, when I first tried it, to my surprise, it turned into a favorite breakfast recipe. With other Italian recipes, I usually go through a trial-and-fail process but here, it just worked straight away. This breakfast blends simplicity with a powerhouse of nutrients. The combination of hearty lentils and the perfect cooked eggs. It not only fills you up but also gives you a fantastic balance of protein and fiber early on in the day.
It’s an easy, no-fuss recipe that has become a part of our family ritual, to be honest.
Let’s make it one more time so you can also master it and never look back.
Best Breakfast Recipe for Your Family
First thing; this home-cooked goodness has an impressive nutritional profile, making it an unparalleled choice for families seeking a nourishing start.
Secondly, it’s a perfect marriage of flavors and texture. Savory lentils topped with rich, protein-packed eggs, who doesn’t like a breakfast like that?
Third, It’s a dish that appeals to all ages, offering a breakfast experience that satisfies both health-conscious and flavor-loving members.
Finally, this Breakfast Lentils with Eggs recipe is very simple to prepare. This gathers everyone at the dining table together and doesn’t tire anyone at the start of the day.
All in all, this is a morning ritual that everyone will love, including the family member who cooks it on the day.
Ingredients and Substitutions
This Breakfast Lentils and Eggs recipe has a short, yet powerful list of ingredients.
Mixed lentils: A nutritious, earthy staple, that’s present in most kitchens. It’s rich in protein and fiber, both necessary for the human body to function properly. Consider using local and fresh lentils. This will not only enhance the flavor but will also cut down on your carbon footprint.
Eggs: Opt for organic varieties for the best taste and nutritional value. So, you don’t compromise on taste and be a conscious citizen.
Olive Oil: What’s Italian without Olive Oil? A small portion of olive oil will match these components together. This will add healthy fats as well as a good subtle flavor.
Garlic: It provides a fragrant base for this breakfast recipe.
Spices: A selection of spices will enable you to flavor the dish the way you or your family likes. No one knows them better than you, I will tell you the basic quantity, and you can adjust it as per your ritual.
And, if you’re looking for substitutions, you can change eggs with tofu for a vegan-friendly meal. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices, like cumin or paprika. It will finally make you create the flavor profile of your dreams.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Select the Lentils
Start by selecting mixed lentils and measuring the quantity you need. The best thing about this breakfast lentils recipe is that you can choose the lentil and its quantity by yourself. It almost, everytime, turns out perfect.
Step 2: Prepare the Lentils
Spread the lentils out on a flat surface and carefully pick through them to remove any small stones or debris. Skip this part if you have done it already or if you’e sure the lentils are clean.
Once you’ve done that, rinse the lentils under cold water until you can see clear water running through it. This step helps remove any debris and ensures clean lentils. Don’t skip this part as no one wants a hard bite
Step 3: Cook the Lentils
Take a medium size saucepan, add the rinsed lentils and cover them with water. Make sure there’s at least an inch of water above the lentils so they cook even. Add a little pinch of salt to the pot to add flavor.
Reduce the heat to a simmer as soon as water comes to a boil. Cook the lentils until they are tender, which for me takes about 20-25 minutes. To check if they’re done, use my method. Taste a few lentils—they should be soft but still hold their shape. If they are cooked, you can drain any excess water and set the lentils aside.
Step 4: Sauté Ingredients
Take a large pan and heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until you can smell it, which should take about 30 seconds to a minute. This step creates a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Eggs
Choose your preferred egg style. For fried eggs, crack them directly into the hot pan and cook until the whites are set. You can keep the egg yolk firm or runny, as you like.
For hard-boiled eggs, place them in boiling water for 9-12 minutes, then transfer them to a bowl with ice cold water. This will help with peeling them easily.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked lentils to the pan which has the sautéed garlic. Add the spices you chose earlier—such as salt, pepper, and a little cumin. Mix well to coat the lentils evenly.
Step 7: Add the Eggs
If using fried eggs, lay them on top of the lentils. This will give your breakfast lentils a restaurant-style look. For hard-boiled eggs, slice them in half and arrange them over the lentils. This again makes it look luxurious for a breakfast. Both these ways bring everything together for a complete and satisfying breakfast dish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the top of these delicious breakfast lentils. This will give an extra boost of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy a filling breakfast early on with your family!
Following these steps will help you create a delicious and nutritious start to your day, full of flavor and the perfect balance of textures.
Pro-Tips
- Opt for green or brown lentils as they hold their shape best when cooked, providing a satisfying texture without becoming mushy.
- For a perfectly runny yolk with fried eggs, cook them on medium heat and cover the pan for a bit while they cook.
- Try adding a squeeze of lemon or a splash of soy sauce right before serving. They’ll give a nice zing and really bring out the flavors of the lentils and eggs.
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Extra Toppings for Breakfast Lentils
Adding some extra toppings to your breakfast lentils can really make the dish special!
Try adding slices of creamy avocado for a rich, buttery taste that goes great with lentils. Everyone at my house loves avocado in the breakfast, I am sure, you will love it too.
Crumbled feta cheese is another great option. Its tangy flavor balances nicely with the soft tender lentils, and creates a good taste overall.
My personal favorite is a combo of sliced avocado, a sprinkle of feta cheese, and a handful of fresh cilantro. This mix gives you the much-needed creaminess, a bit of saltiness, and greens that makes every bite look and taste delicious.
You can also use any of the following toppings to create your own magical flavor:
Sautéed Mushrooms: Add a savory, filling flavor that pairs well with lentils.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Add a sweet and tangy flavor.
Caramelized Onions: Bring a sweet and rich touch to this breakfast dish.
Toasted Nuts or Seeds: Try almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture.
Pickled Vegetables: Add a tangy contrast to this creamy dish, with pickled onions or radishes.
Hot Sauce or Chili Flakes: For a spicy kick.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: For a creamy, tangy addition.
Olives or Capers: Introduce a briny, salty element.
Feel free to mix and match these toppings to find your own perfect blend!
Serving Tips
Serving your breakfast lentils can be as special as making them. If you’re going for an elegant look, plate the lentils beautifully by spreading them evenly on a dish, then add the eggs on top—your guests will love the restaurant-style presentation. We have discussed this method above!
For a family-style meal, serve the lentils in a large, colorful bowl that everyone can share. This not only makes the meal feel warm and inviting but also encourages communal dining.
I often recommend pairing these lentils with crusty bread; it’s perfect for scooping and adds a nice crunch to each bite.
A fresh salad on the side also works great, bringing in a burst of color and freshness to balance out the dish.
When I serve this to my own family, I usually set the table with small bowls of different toppings like avocado slices and crumbled feta. This way, everyone can customize their serving to their taste, and it turns a delicious dish into a fun, interactive meal. We end up having exciting conversations and a very good start to the day. Love it!
Reheating and Storage
When you have leftover breakfast lentils, keeping them fresh is easy. Let them cool down a bit on the counter. Once they are not too hot, spoon the lentils and eggs into an airtight container. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep air out. This helps the food stay fresh longer.
To reheat your leftover lentils, it’s best to be gentle so they still taste great. For the stove method, heat a pan over low heat and add the lentils, stirring occasionally to warm them evenly. If you prefer using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over the dish to keep moisture in and heat in bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between. Avoid overheating, especially the eggs, as they can become rubbery.
By following these steps, your breakfast will taste like it was just cooked, keeping the flavors and textures just right.
Can the dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the lentils the night before and just reheat them in the morning. For the eggs, it’s best to cook them fresh right before serving to enjoy them as intended. By doing this, your meal will be both quick to prepare and delicious.
How can I make it spicier?
To make it spicier, just add your favorite hot sauce or some chopped chili peppers. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top. Adjust the heat level to match your taste and enjoy the extra kick!
Is it suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can cook the lentils in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just be sure to make the eggs fresh, so they taste their best when you eat them.
What are the best types of lentils to use?
The best types of lentils to use are green or brown lentils. They keep their shape when cooked, adding a nice texture without getting mushy. They really work best for this dish!
Are there any dairy-free topping options?
Sure! For a dairy-free topping, you can try sliced avocado or chopped nuts. They add great texture and extra flavor without the dairy. Enjoy customizing your breakfast!
Breakfast Lentils and Eggs Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup of mixed lentils red, green, or brown
- 4 large eggs
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- Optional: a squeeze of lemon
Toppings: 1 sliced avocado, Crumbled feta cheese, Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Rinse lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain. Bring a saucepan of water to a boil, add lentils, and reduce heat to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and ground cumin, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked lentils into the onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon if desired for extra freshness. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- In a separate pan, cook eggs to your preference (fried or hard-boiled is recommended). For vibrant yolks, try cooking sunny-side up.
- Spread lentils evenly on serving plates, then top with cooked eggs. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Optionally, top with avocado slices, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- For creamier lentils, extend the cooking time by 5 minutes and add a splash of olive oil.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to adjust the spices or toppings to suit personal taste preferences. Enjoy exploring different flavor combinations!
