Refreshing lentil salad –Discover a delightful and nourishing dish that will tickle your taste buds while providing essential nutrients: the Refreshing Healthy Lentil Salad. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing meal that is both easy to prepare and rich in flavor.
Refreshing Healthy Lentil Salad
This vibrant salad showcases the relative simplicity of preparing nutritious ingredients that tantalize your palate. With lentils as the star, this dish offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that are bound to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 medium red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow the lentils to simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool.
- While the lentils are cooking, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, red onion, red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving.
This Refreshing Healthy Lentil Salad is not only visually appealing but also brimming with nutritional benefits. Lentils are high in protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a light yet filling meal. This salad can be served as a main dish or a side, making it versatile for any gathering or occasion.