Mediterranean Lentil Salad Feta (Printable)
Vibrant, protein-packed salad with tender lentils, crisp vegetables, creamy feta, and zesty Mediterranean vinaigrette.
# What You Need:
→ Lentils
01 - 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
02 - 3 cups water
03 - 1 bay leaf
→ Vegetables
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1 medium cucumber, diced
06 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
→ Cheese and Olives
09 - 3 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
10 - 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
→ Dressing
11 - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
13 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
14 - 1 clove garlic, minced
15 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
16 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Steps:
01 - Place lentils, water, and bay leaf in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are just tender. Drain thoroughly, discard the bay leaf, and allow the cooked lentils to cool to room temperature.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, chopped parsley, crumbled feta, and sliced olives.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until thoroughly combined.
04 - Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the assembled salad ingredients. Gently toss to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
05 - Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a main course or a hearty side dish.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- It’s your go-to for a healthy, satisfying meal that truly tastes like sunshine.
- You'll adore how quickly it comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy your evening.
02 -
- Don't overcook your lentils; they should be tender but not mushy, or the salad will lose its beautiful texture.
- Always taste your dressing before pouring it on; that's where you truly perfect the balance of flavors.
03 -
- Make sure your lentils are completely cool before mixing them with the other ingredients; warm lentils can make the vegetables wilt and the feta melt slightly.
- For the best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes after dressing, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.