Crispy lentils are a protein-packed, fiber-rich snack or salad topping that delivers crunch and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re air-frying or oven-roasting, this crispy lentils recipe is a simple way to transform humble legumes into a deliciously crunchy, savory treat!
I’ve been making crispy lentils for so long, they elevate any dish, by adding a delicious crunch and so much flavour! Especially if you’re not a fan of lentils, preparing them like this might actually change your mind!
What Ingredients and Equipment You’ll Need
Lentils – I tend to go for brown lentils, but you can use green or black lentils too. The important thing is that they hold their shape well, so avoid red or yellow lentils—they’re too soft and break down easily when cooked.
Oil– My go to is olive oil, but avocado oil and vegetable oil also work. I would avoid strong oils like coconut oil.
Seasonings – Here I just went with salt and pepper but there are endless possibilities. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and more!
How to Make Roasted Crispy Lentils – Oven Method
If using dry, pre-cook your lentils. Cook them according to package instructions until just tender (not mushy). Drain well and let cool. If using canned lentils, just rinse them with water.
Dry the lentils completely. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat the lentils as dry as possible—this is key for crispiness. Place them on a baking tray with baking paper.
Season and oil
Toss the lentils with 1–2 tsp oil and your seasoning of choice or simply salt and pepper. Spread them so they don’t overcrowd. Single layer only.
Roast
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. They’re done when golden brown and crisp.
How to Make Crispy Lentils in the Air Fryer
If using dry lentils, cook them until just tender (not mushy). Drain well and let cool. If using canned lentils, just rinse them with water.
Dry the lentils completely. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat the lentils as dry as possible—this is key for crispiness.
Mix the lentils with oil and salt and pepper or preferred seasoning and put them in the airfryer tray layered with baking paper.
No need to preheat the air fryer. Air fry at 400F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
FYI: The air fryer method is faster and often crispier, but depending on the size of your fryer you’ll need to cook in smaller batches if you want to make a lot. It depends on how big it is, mine can fit 1 can of lentils easily, but for more you’ll need to do it in batches to ensure crispiness.
Storage Instructions
Store fully cooled lentils in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain crunch keep the lid tightly sealed.
To re-crisp, pop them back in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes.
Crispy Lentils for Salad
I always use these crispy lentils are perfect for adding crunch to salads. Try them in my Roasted Vegetable and Crispy Lentils Salad with Tahini Dressing—they add such a crunchy and savory contrast to roasted veggies.
More Serving Suggestions
Over roasted vegetables on a base of tahini mixed with yogurt
Sprinkled on soups like tomato, or carrot-ginger
Topping for grain bowls or wraps
Mixed with nuts and seeds for a savory snack mix
Expert Tips for Perfect Crispy Lentils
- Drying is important: Make sure they are dry to ensure crispiness. You don’t have to go crazy trying to dry them, patting them dry with a kitchen towel is enough. It’s okay if some are not completely dry, the oven/air fryer will remove all moisture.
- Don’t overcook your lentils if cooking them from dry. Aim for tender but intact.
- Give them space: Spreading them allows the lentils to crisp up perfectly
- Cool completely before storing: Trapped steam softens them.
- Use parchment paper in the oven to prevent sticking and promote even crisping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
High in protein and fiber
Naturally gluten-free and vegan
Easy to batch prep and store
Customizable with endless seasoning options
Perfect on salads, soups, bowls, or as a crunchy snack
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Do these lentils stay crispy?
Yes, if stored properly. Let them cool fully, keep them in an airtight container, and avoid humid environments.
Can I make these oil-free?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Without oil, the result will be better in the air fryer.
How do you recommend using these lentils?
My favourite is with a roasted vegetable salad with tahini dressing like this one but you can add them to bowls, on soups, or even just as a savory snack.
Do the lentils need to be cooked before roasting?
Yes. Whether starting from dry or canned, the lentils need to be fully cooked and dried before roasting or air frying.
Which lentils are best for roasting?
Stick with lentils that retain shape after cooking: green, brown, French (Puy), or black (Beluga). Avoid red or yellow.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
I love to see recreations and share them!
Crispy Lentils: How To Make Them In The Oven and Air Fryer
Equipment
- Oven
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 can brown lentils
- 2 tsp olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- If using dry, pre-cook your lentils. Cook them according to package instructions until just tender (not mushy). Drain well and let cool. If using canned lentils, just rinse them with water.
- Dry the lentils completely. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat the lentils as dry as possible—this is key for crispiness.
Oven Method
- Place the lentils on a baking tray with baking paper.
- Toss the lentils with 1–2 tsp oil and your seasoning of choice or simply salt and pepper. Spread them so they don’t overcrowd. Single layer only.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. They’re done when golden brown and crisp.
Air Fryer Method
- In a bowl, mix the lentils with oil and salt and pepper or preferred seasoning and put them in the airfryer tray layered with baking paper (so they don't fall through the holes)
- No need to preheat. Air fry at 400F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- The air fryer method is faster and often crispier, but depending on the size, you’ll need to cook in smaller batches. It depends on how big it is, mine can fit 1 can of lentils easily, but for more you’ll need to do it in batches to ensure crispiness.
