Description
This vibrant Lentil Salad is a delightful combination of fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. Featuring tender lentils, crisp cucumber, sweet Medjool dates, and fragrant herbs, this salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a light lunch on its own or as a refreshing side dish at your next gathering. With its quick preparation time and meal prep-friendly nature, you can enjoy this delicious salad throughout the week without any hassle. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this Lentil Salad is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 large cucumber (finely diced)
- ½ red onion (finely diced)
- 1 cup Medjool dates (finely diced)
- 1 small bunch flat-leaf parsley
- Lemon vinaigrette (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Cook the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine lentils, water, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 16 to 20 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and chill.
- Assemble the salad: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled lentils with cucumber, red onion, dates, and parsley.
- Add dressing: Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 16g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to enhance flavor. For added crunch, top with sunflower seeds or nuts. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.