Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon is a refreshing and nutritious dish that brings healthy eating to your table with ease. This salad combines lentils, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare. Secondly, lentils are a fantastic source of protein, making this salad filling and nutritious. Moreover, the bright lemon dressing adds a zesty flavor that balances perfectly with the creamy feta and fresh vegetables. It’s also versatile — you can enjoy it as a side dish or a main meal.
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
- 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 vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- 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
Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon is best served chilled. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. This salad also makes a great side dish for barbecues or potlucks. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges for an added touch.
How to Store Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
You can store Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3–5 days. The flavors may improve as the salad sits, making it a great make-ahead option. However, it’s best to add the feta cheese right before serving to keep it fresh.
Tips to Make Lentil Salad with Feta & Lemon
- Rinse the lentils well to remove any dust or debris before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and nutrients.
- If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can mix in a little plain yogurt with the dressing ingredients.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and herbs to suit your taste.
Variation
For a different twist, try adding roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the salad. You can also substitute quinoa for lentils for a unique texture and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can use red or black lentils, but be aware that they may cook faster than green or brown lentils.
2. Is this salad vegan?
This salad contains feta cheese, so it is not vegan. However, you can either omit the feta or substitute it with a plant-based cheese to make it vegan.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad tastes great when made ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge and add the feta just before serving for the best texture.
