Name: Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 large carrots, sliced into thick coins; 1 large shallot, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp maple syrup or honey; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp ground cumin; ¼ tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp kosher salt; 1 cup French lentils (dry); 3–4 Medjool dates, pitted and finely chopped; ¼ cup salted, roasted almonds, chopped; ¼ cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted and chopped; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped; Kosher salt, to taste; Hummus (store-bought or homemade); Extra olive oil, for drizzling

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, this Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus should be on your menu! The combination of sweet, spiced roasted carrots mixed with earthy lentils layered over creamy hummus creates a warm and inviting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Each bite is a journey of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a healthy option throughout the week.

The vibrant colors and wholesome ingredients make this salad visually appealing too. It’s both filling and satisfying, while also being entirely plant-based. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more vegetables to your diet, this recipe is an absolute winner. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite nuts or switching up the herbs for a personal touch. Let’s dive right into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Roasted Carrots:
3 large carrots, sliced into thick coins
1 large shallot, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp maple syrup or honey
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp kosher salt
For the Lentil Salad:
1 cup French lentils (dry)
3–4 Medjool dates, pitted and finely chopped
¼ cup salted, roasted almonds, chopped
¼ cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted and chopped
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Kosher salt, to taste
To Serve:
Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
Extra olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

To make this delightful Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus, follow these straightforward steps:

Roast the Veggies: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the sliced carrots and shallots with olive oil, maple syrup (or honey), smoked paprika, ground cumin, cinnamon, and kosher salt until they are nicely coated. Spread the mixture across a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Place it in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are golden brown and tender.
Cook the Lentils: While the veggies are roasting, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a pot. Add the dry French lentils and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook them for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the lentils well and set them aside to cool slightly.
Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warmed lentils with chopped Medjool dates, chopped olives, chopped almonds, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, fresh parsley, fresh mint, and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir everything together until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld.
Assemble and Serve: On a large serving plate or individual plates, spread a generous layer of hummus. Top it with the lentil mixture followed by the roasted carrots. Drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the top for added richness and flavor. Your salad is now ready to be served!

Variations

This Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus is highly versatile, and there are numerous ways to tweak it to suit your preferences! Here are some delicious variations you might consider:

Different Veggies: While carrots have a sweet, earthy flavor, feel free to add other roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for more variety and nutrients.
Swap the Lentils: If you can’t find French lentils, you can replace them with green or black lentils. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
Nut Alternatives: You can experiment with different nuts or seeds. Walnuts or sunflower seeds make great substitutes for roasted almonds.
Spice It Up: Add a touch of heat with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for those who love a kick of spice.
Herb Mix: Change up the herbs based on what you have available. Fresh cilantro or basil can add a refreshing twist to the salad.

Cooking Notes

Before you get started on this delicious vegetarian salad, here are some helpful cooking notes:

Prep Time: Make sure to set aside some time for chopping your vegetables and herbs. The more even the cuts, the better the roasting will be.
Cooking Time: Keep a close watch on the carrots while they roast. Depending on their thickness, they may take a little more or less time to get perfectly tender.
Simmering Lentils: Ensure you don’t overcook the lentils. They should hold their shape and not turn mushy!
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just be mindful that the hummus may become less creamy over time.
Serving Size: This recipe serves about 4-6 as a main dish. If you’re serving it as a side salad, it can easily feed more.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus is not only beautiful but also works brilliantly as both a light meal and a heartier side dish. Here are a few tips on serving:

Enjoy the salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled according to your preference. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish if you are looking for a protein addition.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding quinoa or other grains to the salad mix.
Serve with warm pita bread on the side for dipping into the creamy hummus.

Tips

Here are some handy tips to make your Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus even better:

For maximum flavor, let the roasted carrots cool slightly before adding them to the salad. This will ensure they remain vibrant and delicious.
Experiment with different brands of hummus; they all have unique flavor profiles that can change the overall taste of the salad.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving for a burst of acidity that brightens all the flavors.
Make it ahead of time: The lentil salad can be made in advance, allowing for even better flavors to develop.
Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning. Always taste before serving and add salt or other spices as needed!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

Protein: 12g

Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can substitute French lentils with green or black lentils; however, their cooking times may vary slightly. Just make sure not to overcook them!

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge, making it convenient for weekday lunches or dinner.

Can I make homemade hummus for this recipe?
Yes! Homemade hummus adds a wonderful personal touch. Just blend canned chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?
It typically lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. Just remember that the texture of the hummus may change slightly over time.

Are there any alternative toppings I can use?
Certainly! You can use feta cheese, roasted chickpeas, or even a dollop of tzatziki for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Roasted Carrot and Lentil Salad with Hummus is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that suit a variety of palates. It’s healthy, filling, and completely customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or taking it to a potluck, this dish is sure to impress everyone. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and adapt the recipe to your liking. If you’ve tried this recipe, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below and share your experiences. Enjoy!