You'll find quite a variety out there, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Among the crowd, green, brown, red, and black lentils steal the spotlight. Green and brown ones hold their shape well, making them perfect for salads and sides. Red lentils, on the other hand, cook down to a mush, ideal for thickening soups and stews. Black lentils, often called Beluga lentils, are known for their rich flavor and firm texture, great for adding a bit of elegance to your dishes.