Simple Recipes for Israeli Tomato And Cucumber Salad in Under 30 Minutes

Updated
2 min read

Israeli tomato and cucumber salad –Today, I want to share a delightful recipe that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with fresh flavors. This dish marries the crispness of a classic Israeli salad with the wholesome goodness of lentil falafel. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a vibrant side dish at gatherings. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Israeli Tomato + Cucumber Salad with Lentil Falafel

This salad is a wonderful blend of fresh vegetables and hearty falafel. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of textures and tastes on your plate.

Israeli Tomato + Cucumber Salad with Lentil Falafel - Ends + Stems

Ingredients for Salad:

  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (color of your choice)
  • 1 handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 handful of fresh mint, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredients for Lentil Falafel:

  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Start by preparing the lentil falafel. Soak the lentils in water for at least 4 hours, then drain.
  2. In a food processor, combine the soaked lentils, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until you have a coarse mixture.
  3. Form small balls from the mixture and set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the lentil balls in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  5. For the salad, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, parsley, and mint in a large bowl.
  6. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve the salad topped with the warm lentil falafel for a delightful meal!

This vibrant Israeli salad paired with crispy lentil falafel is sure to impress. It’s a great option to bring to potlucks or simply enjoy at home. Each bite offers a taste of the Mediterranean, making it a perfect choice for warm days or any time of the year. Enjoy!