Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy Mediterranean Lentil Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. Featuring a medley of lentils, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, this salad is perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a meal prep option. It’s naturally gluten-free, rich in fiber, and full of classic Mediterranean flavors that are both satisfying and nutritious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

greek lentils (or green/brown lentils)cherry tomatoescucumberred onionbell pepperkalamata olivesfresh parsleyfresh mintcrumbled feta cheese (optional)extra virgin olive oillemon juicegarlicdijon mustardsaltblack pepper

directions

Cook the lentils in water until tender but not mushy, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and let cool.

Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils with the chopped vegetables and kalamata olives.

Add chopped fresh parsley and mint for a burst of flavor.

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Top with crumbled feta cheese if using.

Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesCooling and assembling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add cooked quinoa or couscous for extra bulk.

Toss in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.

Replace feta with avocado for a dairy-free version.

Include arugula or baby spinach for added greens.

Use roasted red peppers instead of fresh for a smoky flavor.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, just rinse and drain them well to avoid excess salt and mushiness.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, if you skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely, it’s ideal for meal prep and tastes better as the flavors meld.

What type of lentils work best?

Green or brown lentils hold their shape well and are ideal for salads.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture of the vegetables and herbs.

Conclusion

Healthy Mediterranean Lentil Salad is a colorful, wholesome dish that brings together flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re following a plant-based diet or just looking for a refreshing new way to enjoy lentils, this salad delivers on all fronts. Enjoy it chilled as a standalone meal or a complement to your favorite Mediterranean dishes.