Rinse the lentils in a strainer and make sure there are no little bits of anything other than beans in the mix.
Place them in a medium pot and add water to cover by about 4 inches. If you like you can add a couple of sprigs of thyme and a bay leaf.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium, add a teaspoon or so of salt, and keep them at a simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender. Taste often towards the end and take them out just when they are done to your liking, so they don’t overcook. Drain and use immediately, or spread them out on a rimmed baking sheet to cool if you plan to use them in a salad or other cool preparation.
Notes
2 cups of dried lentils will make about 4 cups of cooked lentils. You can double or even triple the amount, but make sure your pot is large enough, and you keep the water level above the beans.