Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Lentils are sturdy enough to hold a vinaigrette without becoming mushy, which makes them an excellent base for a make-ahead salad. Cucumber, tomato, herbs and lemon bring freshness, while feta and olives add the salty accents that make the earthy lentils more interesting.
Cook the lentils only until tender and drain them well. Dressing them while they are slightly warm helps them absorb flavor, but wait until they cool before folding in delicate herbs and crisp vegetables.
Lentils Make This Salad Hearty Without Making It Heavy
- Plant-based protein and fiber
- Mediterranean Lentil Salad holds up well when you are planning lunches ahead.
- Fresh Mediterranean flavors
- Good warm or chilled
- Simple pantry ingredients
Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Mediterranean lentil salad combines tender lentils, cucumber, tomatoes, herbs and feta with a lemon-olive oil dressing for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry brown or green lentils 190 g, rinsed
- 3 cups water 720 ml
- 1 cup diced cucumber 120 g
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes 150 g, halved
- 1/4 red onion finely diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta 75 g
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped mint optional
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add lentils and water to a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender but still hold their shape, about 18–25 minutes depending on variety.
- Drain well and cool to room temperature.
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, oregano, salt and pepper.
- Combine lentils, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta, parsley and mint.
- Toss with dressing and serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
Cooking times can vary by equipment and ingredient size. Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients, brands, and portion sizes.
Read the Food, Not Only the Clock
- Do not overcook lentils or the salad will become mushy.
- Drain lentils thoroughly.
- Cool before adding cucumber and feta.
- Taste after resting and adjust lemon.
Where Mediterranean Lentil Salad Fits at the Table
- Grilled Fish
- Chicken Souvlaki
- Hummus
- Whole-Grain Pita
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The Practical Questions Behind Mediterranean Lentil Salad
What lentils work best for salad?
Brown, green or French-style lentils hold their shape better than red lentils.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes. Rinse and drain them well and skip the cooking step.
How long does lentil salad keep?
It is well suited to refrigerated meal prep; store promptly in an airtight container.
