Refreshing and Healthy Greek Lentil Salad Recipe

5 stars
4.67 (17)
Refreshing and Healthy Greek Lentil Salad Recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 19, 2023

This Greek Lentil Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. It combines tender lentils with fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon herb dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner, this salad is easy to make and satisfies both the taste buds and nutrition needs. The combination of protein-rich lentils and nutritious veggies make this recipe a great choice for vegetarians and health-conscious individuals. Enjoy the taste of Greece with every bite!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess water and let the lentils cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and dill.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
  5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend.
  6. Serve the Greek Lentil Salad chilled and garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired.
  7. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
  • Greek cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, herbs, and olive oil.
  • Kalamata olives are a type of olive grown in Greece and are known for their rich and tangy flavor.
  • Feta cheese is a classic Greek cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat milk.