Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of this Lentil Salad, an ideal dish for any occasion. With a delightful blend of earthy lentils, crisp fresh vegetables, and sweet Medjool dates, all drizzled with a bright lemon vinaigrette, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for summer barbecues, light lunches, or meal prep, it can be customized with your favorite ingredients and keeps well in the fridge for up to five days. Enjoy it as a main dish by adding grilled protein or pair it with roasted veggies as a refreshing side. This salad not only pleases the palate but also supports a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 large cucumber (finely diced)
- ½ red onion (finely diced)
- 1 cup Medjool dates (finely diced)
- 1 small bunch flat-leaf parsley
- Lemon vinaigrette
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine lentils, water, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 16-20 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and chill.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chilled lentils with cucumber, red onion, dates, and parsley.
- Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cumin or smoked paprika. Feel free to substitute the dressing with balsamic vinaigrette for a different twist.