Description
This vibrant Lentil Salad combines tender green or brown lentils with fresh crunchy vegetables and a tangy, flavorful dressing. Easy to prepare and perfect as a nutritious side or light main dish, this salad is packed with protein, fiber, and fresh herbs for a refreshing and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 3 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook lentils: In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed lentils, water, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain lentils and discard bay leaf. Allow lentils to cool.
- Prepare vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced red bell pepper, finely chopped carrot, diced cucumber, finely sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine lentils and vegetables: Add the cooled lentils to the bowl with the vegetables and mix gently to combine.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the lentil and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Let flavors meld: Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors develop and meld together.
Notes
- Lentils can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to save time.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a richer flavor variation.
- For extra texture, consider adding toasted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts.
