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Mediterranean Lentil Salad

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This Mediterranean Lentil Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish filled with tender lentils, crisp vegetables, tangy feta, and a citrusy vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or meal prep option, this salad is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan. Enjoy the bold Mediterranean flavors in just 40 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 cup dry lentils (green, brown, or black)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup kalamata olives, halved
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, diced
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, minced

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Lentils:

  1. Rinse lentils under cold water.
  2. In a medium pot, combine lentils, water, and bay leaf.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender (about 18-25 minutes).
  4. Drain and let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

  1. While lentils cook, chop cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, slice red onion, and dice roasted red peppers.

3. Make the Dressing:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey.
  2. Slowly drizzle in olive oil, whisking continuously until emulsified.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Salad:

  1. In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils, vegetables, olives, feta, oregano, and mint.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

5. Let Flavors Meld & Serve:

  1. Let the salad sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
  2. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Notes

  • Best Lentils: Use green, brown, or black lentils as they hold their shape well.
  • Milder Red Onion: Soak onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness.
  • Make It Vegan: Swap feta for a plant-based cheese alternative.

Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/mediterranean-lentil-salad/