How to Cook Cold Lentil Salad in Easy Steps

Updated
2 min read

Cold lentil salad –Welcome to a burst of flavor and nutrition with this delightful Cold Lentil Salad! Perfect for a sunny day or as a colorful addition to your meal prep, this dish is not only easy to make but also packed with protein, fiber, and an array of vibrant vegetables. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Featured Dish: Cold Lentil Salad

This Cold Lentil Salad is a refreshing and healthy option that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. With an inviting mix of textures and tastes, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Cold Lentil Salad

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water. Place them in a saucepan with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool.
  3. While the lentils are cooling, prepare your vegetables. Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop the fresh parsley as well.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, diced vegetables, and parsley.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This will be your dressing.
  6. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar according to your preference.
  8. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This Cold Lentil Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant colors! Enjoy this delightful dish at your next gathering or pack it up for lunch during the week. You’ll love how versatile and satisfying this salad can be!