Description
A refreshing and protein-packed Mediterranean lentil salad made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy lemon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a nutritious side dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and place them in a saucepan with water and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, parsley, and mint.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can prepare the lentils ahead of time and refrigerate them.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Adjust the vegetables based on season or availability.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg