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Mediterranean Lentil Salad Fresh, Zesty, and Protein-Packed

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350
A vibrant and nutritious salad combining hearty lentils with fresh vegetables and zesty dressing for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Lentils

  • 1 cup Lentils (Any type green, brown, or black)
  • 3 cups Water (Essential for cooking lentils)
  • 1 piece Bay Leaf (Remove before mixing the salad)
  • 1 medium Cucumber (Provides refreshing crunch)
  • 1 small Red Onion (Delivers sharpness)
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Adds sweetness)
  • 0.5 cup Kalamata Olives (Contributes a briny flavor)
  • 0.5 cup Roasted Red Peppers (Infuses smoky sweetness)
  • 0.25 cup Fresh Mint (Enhances freshness)
  • 0.25 cup Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (For tartness)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Enhances flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon Honey (Adds sweetness)
  • 0.25 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (Best for flavor)

Salt

  • to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning)

Pepper

  • to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning)

Instructions 

  • Cook lentils in water with bay leaf until tender, then drain and remove bay leaf.
  • Chop cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, olives, red peppers, and mint.
  • Whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and olive oil to make the dressing.
  • Combine cooked lentils with chopped vegetables and pour dressing over. Toss to combine.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Calories: 350kcal
Cost: $12
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: Lentils