French Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese

Ingredients

• 1 cup of French lentils
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup of red onion, diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 ounces of goat cheese, crumbled

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the lentils and simmer for 15 minutes, or until they are just cooked through.
2. Drain the lentils and rinse with cold water. Place them in a large bowl.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic to the bowl and mix to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and mix until everything is evenly coated.
5. Add the goat cheese and mix until everything is evenly combined.
6. Serve the salad warm or cold.

Interesting Facts

• French lentils are a type of lentil that are smaller and darker in color than regular brown or green lentils. They have a nutty flavor and hold their shape when cooked.
• Goat cheese is a type of cheese made from the milk of goats. It has a tangy, creamy flavor and can be used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.
• Balsamic vinegar is a type of vinegar made from grapes and aged in wooden barrels. It has a sweet, tart flavor that pairs nicely with salads.