Lentil & Feta Salad with Parsley is a fresh and healthy dish that combines the goodness of lentils with the tangy flavor of feta cheese. This salad is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for any meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this salad is a great way to include more plant-based ingredients in your diet. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, while feta adds a creamy texture and sharp taste. This salad is easy to prepare, requires minimal cooking, and is perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. Plus, it’s colorful and vibrant, which makes it visually appealing!
How to Make Lentil & Feta Salad with Parsley
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a saucepan, bring the lentils and water or broth to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Drain the lentils and let them cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, feta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine and serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve Lentil & Feta Salad with Parsley
This salad can be served as a light main dish or as a side. It pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own for a healthy meal. You can also add it to wraps or sandwiches for extra flavor!
How to Store Lentil & Feta Salad with Parsley
You can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve as they mingle over time. However, if you plan to keep it for more than a day, consider storing the feta separately to keep it fresh.
Tips to Make Lentil & Feta Salad with Parsley
- Rinse the lentils well before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
- Make sure not to overcook the lentils; they should be tender but still slightly firm.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of garlic powder or some chopped cucumbers to the salad.
- Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a unique taste.
Variation
You can easily customize this salad by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or avocados. Feel free to switch out the feta for goat cheese or omit it entirely for a vegan version.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse them and skip the cooking step.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
3. How can I make this salad more filling?
Add grains like quinoa or couscous to make the salad more filling. Alternatively, serve it with whole-grain pita bread or crackers.
