Embrace the wholesome goodness of legumes with our vibrant Green Lentil Salad recipe. Bursting with fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and zesty citrus flavors, this salad is a celebration of nutritious ingredients and bold flavors. Perfect as a light meal or a refreshing side dish, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the joy of healthy eating with this delightful salad!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Puy or green lentils
- 2 cups water or vegetable stock
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, plus extra if needed
- 1/4 to 1/2 red onion, finely diced (or to taste)
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 cup freshly chopped parsley leaves
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped mint
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus extra if needed
- Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water, then place them in a medium saucepan with water or vegetable stock and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain any excess liquid and transfer the cooked lentils to a large mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the lentils are cooking, finely dice the red onion, dice the Roma tomatoes, and dice the cucumber. Add them to the bowl with the cooked lentils.
- Add Herbs and Zest: Chop the parsley and mint leaves finely, then add them to the bowl with the lentils and vegetables. Zest the lemon directly over the bowl, ensuring to catch only the yellow part of the peel, not the bitter white pith.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the lentil salad to a serving platter or individual plates. If desired, sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt for a finishing touch.
Cook’s Notes:
- Puy lentils, also known as French green lentils, are preferred for their firm texture and nutty flavor. However, you can use other green lentil varieties if Puy lentils are not available.
- Be sure to chop the vegetables and herbs finely for a well-balanced texture and flavor in the salad.
- For added crunch and flavor, you can toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds before serving.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add diced bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version of the salad.
- Protein Boost: Mix in some cooked and diced chicken breast, grilled tofu, or canned chickpeas for added protein.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried? Yes, you can use canned lentils if you’re short on time. Simply drain and rinse them before adding them to the salad. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as canned lentils may already contain salt.
2. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together even more over time, making it even more delicious for leftovers!
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but wait to toss them together until just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture.
4. Can I substitute other herbs for parsley and mint? Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, or dill to customize the flavor of the salad to your liking.
5. Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet? Yes, this salad is naturally vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. It’s a nutritious and satisfying option for vegans and omnivores alike.
Experience the joy of wholesome eating with our Green Lentil Salad, a vibrant medley of flavors and textures that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or a refreshing side dish, this salad offers a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and zesty citrus flavors that’s sure to please your palate. So gather your ingredients and savor the goodness of this nutritious and flavorful salad creation!
