Mediterranean Lentil Delight
When I first created the Mediterranean Lentil Delight, I wanted to capture the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in one dish. Mediterranean Lentil Delight is a fresh, healthy, and delicious salad that brings together a variety of textures and tastes. I remember standing in my kitchen, chopping bright, juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, thinking about how these simple ingredients would come together to create something extraordinary.
Inspiration
The inspiration for Mediterranean Lentil Delight came from my love for Mediterranean cuisine. I wanted to create a dish that was not only nutritious but also packed with flavor. Mediterranean Lentil Delight is perfect for those hot summer days when you crave something light yet satisfying. The combination of tangy olives, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs makes it a dish that bursts with every bite.
Preparation
Preparing Mediterranean Lentil Delight is incredibly easy and quick, which makes it one of my go-to recipes for busy days. I start by cooking the lentils to perfection, ensuring they are tender but not mushy. Once the lentils are ready, it’s just a matter of mixing them with the fresh veggies, olives, and cheese. The dressing, made with high-quality olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of lime, ties everything together beautifully.
Serving and Enjoying
One of the best things about Mediterranean Lentil Delight is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. I often make a big batch to have leftovers for lunch the next day. Each time I serve Mediterranean Lentil Delight to family or friends, it’s always a hit, and I’m reminded of why I love this recipe so much. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the wholesome goodness of lentils and the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Mediterranean Lentil Delight
- Lentil Cooking Tips: For the best texture, cook lentils until just tender but not mushy. Rinse them under cold water to cool quickly.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or even sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint, dill, or basil to add different flavor profiles.
- Vinaigrette Balance: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust the acidity with more vinegar or lime juice, or balance it with a touch of honey or maple syrup if needed.
- Serving Suggestion: This salad can be a standalone dish or served over a bed of greens or alongside whole grain pita bread or naan.
- Texture Enhancement: Adding toasted nuts or seeds like pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds can enhance the texture and add a nutty flavor.
- Cheese Alternatives: For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese altogether and add more olives or a handful of nuts for richness.
Mediterranean Lentil Delight
Dive into the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful lentil salad! Packed with fresh veggies, tangy olives, and creamy cheese, this dish is perfect for a light summer meal or a nutritious lunch. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for meal prep days. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of lentils combined with the zest of Greek-inspired ingredients. A must-try for anyone looking to eat healthy without compromising on taste!
4
servings20
minutes0
minutes196
kcal20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Dressing
1/4 cup high-quality olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1/2 lime Juice from half a lime
1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Salad
1 1/2 cups cooked and cooled green or brown lentils
1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
1 cup thinly sliced English cucumbers
1 cup chopped green or orange bell peppers
1/2 cup pitted black olives, halved
1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Dressing – In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lime juice, whole grain mustard, dried basil, and kosher salt. Whisk until well blended. Set aside; you may need to whisk again before using as it may separate (5 minutes).
- Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grape tomatoes, English cucumbers, bell peppers, black olives, yellow onion, crumbled goat cheese (or dairy-free alternative), and fresh cilantro (10 minutes).
- Dress and Serve – Pour the desired amount of dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for later enjoyment (5 minutes).
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 196kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 40mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQs- Mediterranean Lentil Delight
Can I use canned lentils instead of cooking them from scratch?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before using.
How long can I store the salad in the refrigerator?
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
What can I use instead of goat cheese?
Feta cheese is a great alternative, or you can use a dairy-free cheese if you prefer a vegan option.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
What other vegetables can I add to this salad?
You can add or substitute vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes based on your preference and what you have on hand.
