Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing
A refreshing, protein-rich salad bursting with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon garlic dressing. Perfect as a light meal or hearty side dish!
✅ Ingredients
For the Lentil Salad:
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1 cup green or black lentils, rinsed
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1 bay leaf
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1 cucumber, chopped
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 orange bell pepper, chopped
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2 green onions, chopped
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½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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½ cup fresh mint, chopped
For the Dressing:
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⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
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Juice of 2 large lemons
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1 large garlic clove, minced
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½ tsp red chili flakes
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
🥣 Instructions
STEP 1: Cook the Lentils
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Rinse lentils under cold water.
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Add them to a pot with 3 cups of water and the bay leaf.
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Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
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Drain and discard the bay leaf. Let the lentils cool slightly.
STEP 2: Prepare the Salad
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped cucumber, bell peppers, green onions, parsley, and mint.
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Gently toss to mix everything evenly.
STEP 3: Make the Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
STEP 4: Combine and Serve
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Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture.
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Toss gently to coat everything well.
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Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
🕒 Time & Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Servings: 4
Enjoy this vibrant and wholesome Mediterranean salad — it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and meal prep–friendly!