Lentil salad with chimichurri sauce –Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with an explosion of flavors in this delightful recipe for The Best Crunchy Lentil Salad! Perfect as a light meal or a side dish, this colorful salad is not only nutritious but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s dive into this refreshing dish that brings together the earthy goodness of lentils and a medley of fresh ingredients.
Crunchy Lentil Salad
This salad is a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crunch from veggies combined with the heartiness of lentils makes it a satisfying option for any meal. Not to mention, it’s packed with protein and fiber!
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, corn, parsley, and cilantro.
- Add the cooled lentils to the bowl of veggies.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Let the salad sit for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy the refreshingly crunchy flavors!
This Crunchy Lentil Salad is not just another salad; it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh ingredients that can elevate your meal and brighten your day. So gather your ingredients and start mixing – your next favorite dish is just a few steps away!