This colorful Mediterranean lentil salad is packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and protein-rich lentils. It’s a healthy, tasty mix that makes a perfect side dish or light lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lentils: I recommend green or brown lentils for this salad. They hold their shape well when cooked. If you can only find canned lentils, rinse and drain them to save time.
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness. If they’re out of season, use regular tomatoes and diced zucchini instead. Bell peppers could be swapped for shredded carrots for a sweet crunch!
Olives: Kalamata olives are popular for this dish. If you prefer something milder, green olives or even capers can work well if you want a tangy taste.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan feta or omit it entirely. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor if you’re looking for a substitute.
Fresh Herbs: I love adding parsley and mint for a fresh kick. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work, but fresh is always best for vibrant flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Lentils Perfectly?
Cooking lentils is simple, but getting them just right is key! Follow these steps to ensure they’re tender and flavorful:
- Rinse lentils under cold water to remove any debris.
- In a pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes until tender, checking occasionally. Avoid overcooking!
- Drain off any excess liquid and let them cool for the salad.
Each type of lentil has a slightly different cooking time, so adjust if you’re using red or black lentils. They cook quicker!
Easy Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time, 25 minutes of cooking for the lentils, and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, plan for about an hour, but it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Lentils:
In a medium pot, add your rinsed lentils along with the water or vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. You want the lentils to be tender but not mushy! Drain any excess liquid and set the lentils aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
While the lentils are cooking, get your veggies ready! Take a large bowl and add the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, Kalamata olives, and the fresh herbs—parsley and mint, if you’re using it. Once the lentils have cooled down, toss them into the bowl with the veggies.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful dressing to bring everything together!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the lentil and vegetable mixture, then gently toss it all together. Make sure everything is well-coated with the delicious dressing!
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature as a bright side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!
FAQ About Easy Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Can I Use Canned Lentils Instead of Dried Lentils?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned lentils are a great alternative. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the salad, and skip the cooking step.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This Mediterranean lentil salad will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can certainly customize this salad! Feel free to add diced carrots, radishes, or even fresh spinach for extra crunch and flavor. Just match it to your taste preferences!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, it’s easy to make this salad vegan! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free version. The salad will still be delicious and packed with flavor!
