Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked green lentils
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ½ cup quartered cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup sliced pitted kalamata olives
- ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons minced dill
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: Prepare 2 cups of green lentils according to the package instructions. Once cooked, let them cool completely before assembling the salad to ensure the flavors combine well and the salad doesn’t become soggy.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a medium to large mixing or serving bowl, add the cooled lentils, diced cucumber, quartered cherry tomatoes, sliced kalamata olives, chopped green onions, minced dill, and minced parsley. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or a mason jar, combine apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh squeezed lemon juice (if using), honey, olive oil, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake the jar well until the dressing emulsifies into a creamy consistency.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the lentil and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the dressing. Garnish with additional chopped herbs if desired for extra freshness.
- Serve: Serve the lentil salad chilled or at room temperature as a healthy and satisfying meal or side dish.
Notes
- Cook lentils thoroughly but avoid overcooking to maintain their texture in the salad.
- The lemon juice is optional but adds a bright, fresh flavor to balance the dressing.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Add crumbled feta cheese if you want a creamy, tangy addition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian