Description
This Mediterranean Lentil Salad is a refreshing, protein-rich dish bursting with fresh vegetables, hearty lentils, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for meal prep or summer gatherings, it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein for a wholesome and energizing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils with water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and let them cool.
- While the lentils cool, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Slice the Kalamata olives and chop the fresh parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, chopped vegetables, olives, and parsley. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Let the lentils cool completely before mixing to avoid a mushy texture.
- Add fresh herbs like mint or dill for extra freshness.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Mediterranean Lentil Salad, Healthy Lentil Salad, Protein-Packed Salad, Easy Mediterranean Recipe, Vegetarian Salad, Meal Prep Salad