Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Lentil Salad – Downshiftology


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: James Carter
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A fresh, vibrant, and hearty lentil salad packed with vegetables and a zesty lemon- Dijon dressing. Perfect for a healthy lunch or side dish. Easy to make and ideal for meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking lentils)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional, for cooking lentils)
  • ½ cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1 cup finely chopped cucumber
  • ½ cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh mint (optional)
  • For the Dressing:
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • â…› teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Cook lentils: Combine rinsed lentils, water/broth, and bay leaf (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes until tender but not mushy.
  2. 2. Drain and cool lentils: Drain excess liquid, remove bay leaf. Spread lentils on a baking sheet to cool completely.
  3. 3. Prepare vegetables: Finely chop red onion, celery, cucumber, and bell pepper. Chop fresh parsley and mint.
  4. 4. Make dressing: Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.
  5. 5. Combine: In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils with chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour dressing over the mixture. Toss to combine.
  6. 6. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Store leftover lentil salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Best served cold or at room temperature.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling/Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 15g
  • Protein: 15g