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Vibrant Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

Close-up of a vibrant lentil salad featuring cooked lentils, chopped cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
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This fresh, protein-packed Mediterranean Lentil Salad is simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for quick lunches or meal preparation. It features hearty lentils, crisp vegetables, and a bright lemon dressing for satisfying flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 English cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the rinsed lentils and water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and let the lentils cool slightly.
  2. While the lentils cool, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.
  4. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the lentil and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. If using, fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
  6. Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad is excellent for meal prep and tastes great the next day.

Notes

  • For a gluten free lentil salad, confirm your lentils were not cross-contaminated during processing.
  • To make this a vegan lentil dish, omit the feta cheese.
  • This recipe is perfect for meal prep salads; it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mayaplate.com/lentil-salad-mediterranean-recipe-quick-easy/