Lentil Salad
Lentil salad is a delightful culinary creation that celebrates the nourishing power of lentils, a versatile and nutrient-packed legume. With its roots in various cuisines around the world, lentil salad has earned a special place on dining tables for its wholesome goodness and robust flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- 2 cup water or vegetable broth
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Heat a medium saucepan over high heat and bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the lentils to the boiling liquid, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook the lentils for about 15-20 minutes or until tender but still firm. Drain any excess liquid and let the lentils cool slightly.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the lentils are cooking, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Chop the fresh parsley and set aside
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil,balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create a light and tangy dressing.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped parsley. If using, add the crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the lentil and vegetable mixture. With a gentle toss, ensure that all the ingredients in the salad are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the lentil salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy this simple and unique lentil salad as a refreshing and nutritious meal.
Notes
This lentil salad can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference. For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding olives, roasted vegetables, or toasted nuts to create your own delightful variations.
Lentil salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or served as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or alongside a crisp green salad. With its easy preparation and wholesome ingredients, this salad is sure to become a go-to recipe for a quick and nutritious meal.