The type of lentils you choose depends on the type of dish you are cooking. Some lentil varieties hold their shape very well and are better for salads, where others break down during cooking and are better for thick soups. Here are 4 of the most common varieties of lentils:  1. Brown lentils are the most common variety of lentils that you’ll see in your grocery store. They have a mild, earthy flavor, hold their shape well and are often used in warm salads, soups, and vegetarian burgers. 2. Green lentils also hold their shape well and have a stronger flavor than brown lentils. The most famous green lentils are the fabulous French Puy lentils. These lentils are firm and chewy and are great in salads or in other side dishes.  3. Red lentils are sweet and nutty. They cook quickly and break down while cooking. This thickens the liquid they are cooked in. Red lentils are perfect for dishes like Indian dal and soups like this coconut curry lentil soup with turmeric.  4. Black beluga lentils hold their shape well and look like caviar when cooked (which is how they got their name, e.g. beluga caviar!). They have a rich earthy flavor and are often used in salads and hearty side dishes.