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Lentil Salad

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Lentil Salad is a hearty and nutritious dish packed with protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables. With its earthy lentils, crisp veggies, and tangy vinaigrette, this salad is a light yet filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown), rinsed
  2. 4 cups water or vegetable broth
  3. 1 cucumber, diced
  4. 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  5. 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  6. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  7. 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  8. 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)

For the dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the lentils: In a medium pot, combine the lentils and water (or vegetable broth) and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool.

  1. Prepare the vegetables: While the lentils are cooking, chop the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper.
  3. Assemble the salad: Add the cooked lentils to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Toss gently.
  4. Finish the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Add parsley, feta (if using), and olives, then toss again.
  5. Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Enjoy warm, room temperature, or cold.

Notes

  1. For extra freshness, add spinach or arugula to the salad.
  2. If you want more flavor, try adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or sweet potatoes.
  3. This salad can be made vegan by omitting the feta cheese and ensuring the dressing uses maple syrup instead of honey.
  4. Spice it up with chili flakes or cumin for added warmth in the dressing.

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