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Easy Mediterranean Green Lentil Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette

Close-up of a vibrant lentil salad featuring lentils, chopped red onion, cucumber, and tomato in a white bowl.

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Whip up this incredibly fresh and protein-packed Green Lentil Salad! It is quick to make, full of colorful vegetables, and dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This recipe is perfect for healthy lunches, meal prep, or a satisfying side dish. Follow Sophia’s recipe for a taste of the Mediterranean!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
  • For the Vinaigrette:
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the lentils: Combine rinsed lentils and water or broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and let the lentils cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: While the lentils cook, chop the red onion, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the parsley and mint.
  3. Make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, chopped red onion, cucumber, tomatoes, parsley, and mint.
  5. Dress the salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the lentil and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Add feta (if using): Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
  7. Chill and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. This salad is great for meal planning and works well alongside discussions about the best meal delivery services for quick additions to your week.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, simply skip the feta cheese.
  • If you are looking for structured eating guidance, this salad fits well into many meal planning strategies.
  • This salad tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

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