Description
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy lentil salad, perfect for a healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green or black lentils, rinsed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 English cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1 orange bell pepper, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 large lemons
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp Urfa Biber (or red pepper flakes)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start your salad by creating the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix in the spicy Urfa Biber or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Gradually whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture emulsifies and becomes smooth. This dressing is key to infusing the salad with its signature Mediterranean flavor profile. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
- In a pot, combine the rinsed lentils and bay leaf with 3 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce it to a simmer. Let the lentils cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they reach just the right texture—tender but with a slight bite. Once done, drain the lentils well using a colander and discard the bay leaf. This step sets the base for the salad by providing a hearty bulk you’ll enrich with flavors.
- While the lentils are still warm, immediately fold them into the dressing. This allows the lentils to soak up the vibrant flavors while cooling slightly. The warmth of the lentils helps the flavors to meld quickly and deepens the salad’s taste profile.
- With the dressed lentils ready, proceed to add the chopped cucumber, red and orange bell peppers, sliced green onions, parsley, and mint into the bowl. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing and are well mixed. This adds the freshness and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender lentils.
- Now, it’s time to taste and make any final adjustments. Add additional salt, black pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference if necessary. Serve the Mediterranean Lentil Salad immediately for a warm version, or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing cold salad later.
Notes
Be mindful not to overcook the lentils; they should retain a subtle firmness. Adjust dressing quantities based on personal taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 360 per serving
- Sodium: 130 mg per serving
- Protein: 12 g per serving