Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
Lentil salad with feta and lemon is a fresh and flavorful dish that brings together healthy ingredients in a delightful way. This salad is packed with protein-filled lentils, crunchy vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to please everyone at your table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a lentil salad is a great choice for several reasons. First, lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Second, this salad is easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking. Finally, the refreshing flavors of lemon and feta bring brightness to the dish, making it perfect for warm weather or any occasion.
How to Make Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or mint, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, and herbs.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
How to Serve Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
Serve the lentil salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. This salad also makes a great side dish at barbecues or picnics.
How to Store Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors may even improve overnight as they meld together.
Tips to Make Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
- Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of vegetables based on your preferences.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the dressing.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in some Greek yogurt along with the feta.
Variation
You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, or avocado. If you want a spicy kick, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the salad, and skip the cooking step.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this lentil salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. How can I make this salad vegan?
To make the salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.
