🥗 Mediterranean Lentil Salad
A fresh, protein-packed salad loaded with herbs, crisp vegetables, and bright lemon dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light, healthy dinner.
🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Salad:
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1 cup dry green or brown lentils
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3 cups water or vegetable broth
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1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
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1 cucumber (diced)
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½ red onion (finely chopped)
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½ cup crumbled feta cheese
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¼ cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
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¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
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2 tbsp fresh mint (optional, chopped)
For the Dressing:
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
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1 clove garlic (minced)
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Lentils
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Rinse lentils under cold water.
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In a saucepan, combine lentils and water/broth.
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Bring to a boil, then simmer 18–25 minutes until tender but not mushy.
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Drain excess liquid and cool completely.
2️⃣ Prepare the Vegetables
While lentils cool, chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, herbs, and olives.
3️⃣ Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4️⃣ Combine
In a large bowl:
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Add cooled lentils and vegetables.
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Pour dressing over and toss gently.
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Fold in feta cheese last.
5️⃣ Chill & Serve
Refrigerate 20–30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
🍽 Serving Ideas
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Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish
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Spoon into lettuce wraps
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Stuff into pita bread
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Add arugula for a fuller salad
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Top with avocado slices
❓ Q & A
1️⃣ What type of lentils work best?
Green or brown lentils hold their shape best. Red lentils become too soft for salads.
2️⃣ Can I use canned lentils?
Yes. Rinse and drain well. You’ll need about 2½ cups cooked lentils.
3️⃣ How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It tastes even better the next day.
4️⃣ Is it vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit feta or replace with a plant-based alternative.
5️⃣ Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and actually improves in flavor after resting.
6️⃣ How can I boost protein?
Add:
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Chickpeas
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Grilled halloumi
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Quinoa
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Grilled chicken