Mediterranean Lentil Salad

Name: Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup (200 gr) dried lentils (puy, green, or brown) or 2 ½ cups cooked lentils; 3 cups (720 ml) low sodium vegetable broth or water; 1 cup (200 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved; 3.5 oz (100 grams) bell peppers (roasted, grilled, or jarred); 2 oz (60 grams) feta cheese, crumbled; 1 small red onion, finely sliced; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 small garlic clove, minced or pressed; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey (or ½ teaspoon sugar); ½ – ¾ teaspoon fine salt, or more to taste; ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

By:

dani

Published:

September 27, 2025

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This Mediterranean lentil salad is a delightful dish that’s not just healthy but also bursting with flavor. Imagine sitting on a sun-drenched patio, enjoying good food with friends and family. That’s the feeling this salad brings to the table. It’s an easy recipe that combines protein-packed lentils, bright vegetables, and tangy feta cheese, all dressed in a zesty lemon garlic dressing. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious light meal or a refreshing side dish to accompany your barbecue, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Easy to make, visually appealing, and guaranteed to impress your guests, what’s not to love? Let’s get started on making this Mediterranean lentil salad your new favorite recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

This Mediterranean lentil salad recipe strikes the perfect balance between health and flavor. The combination of protein-rich lentils, fresh herbs, and tangy feta provides a satisfying dish that will keep you coming back for more. Moreover, the lemon garlic dressing elevates the flavors, making it a vibrant addition to any meal.

You’ll enjoy how each ingredient complements the others. For instance, the tender lentils pair beautifully with the crisp cherry tomatoes and bright bell peppers. Each bite is like a little burst of sunshine. Plus, lentils are not only nutritious but also hearty enough to make this salad filling. So, you’re not just eating a side; you’re savoring a wholesome meal.

Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Lentil Salad

You’ll love this Mediterranean lentil salad for its refreshing qualities and robust taste. It’s a dish that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Packed with fresh ingredients and nutrients, this salad embodies the spirit of Mediterranean cuisine, making it perfect for any occasion.

No need for complicated techniques here; just simple chopping and mixing. It works well as a stand-alone meal or as a companion for grilled meats at backyard cookouts. Each mouthful is a treat that reminds you of sunny shores and outdoor picnics. What’s more, it fits well into a healthy eating plan, loaded with protein and fiber but low in calories.

Ingredients

1 cup (200 gr) dried lentils (puy, green, or brown) or 2 ½ cups cooked lentils
3 cups (720 ml) low sodium vegetable broth or water
1 cup (200 grams) cherry tomatoes, halved
3.5 oz (100 grams) bell peppers (roasted, grilled, or jarred)
2 oz (60 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
1 small red onion, finely sliced
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, minced or pressed
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey (or ½ teaspoon sugar)
½ – ¾ teaspoon fine salt, or more to taste
⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Lentils for Your Salad

Boil the Lentils

Start by combining the dried lentils and vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil, which is the first step in creating your Mediterranean lentil salad.

Simmer Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer the lentils, keeping an eye on them. Begin testing for doneness after about 20 minutes. You’ll want them tender but not mushy. Once they’re ready, drain and rinse them to stop the cooking process.

This is crucial; the texture of lentils can greatly affect your salad. You want them to hold their shape while still being soft enough to enjoy.

Making the Salad

Combine Ingredients

In a large serving bowl, combine the salad ingredients, including the warm lentils. Check how the warm lentils mix with the fresh vegetables—this is where the magic begins! If you used canned lentils, give them a quick warm-up to enhance flavor absorption.

Preparing the Dressing

Mix Dressing Ingredients

Take a screw-top glass jar, and add the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Start with ½ teaspoon of salt and shake well until emulsified. This homemade dressing makes the Mediterranean lentil salad shine.

Feel free to taste and adjust! If you like it zestier, add more lemon or a pinch of salt until it’s just right.

Assembling and Serving

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the lentil salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients. Be careful not to mash the lentils while doing this. Adjust seasoning to your taste, and voilà, your salad is ready!

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with crusty bread, and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or feta on top for extra flavor. Just imagine this colorful salad on your dining table, ready to be enjoyed!

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean lentil salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or marinated olives. It’s an excellent choice for summer picnics or a light dinner. You could even serve it alongside grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.

Try it as a side with roasted fish or enjoy it on its own as a filling lunch. You can’t go wrong here!

Tips for Success

For the best texture, avoid overcooking the lentils; they should be tender yet firm.
Fresh herbs make a world of difference; go for freshly chopped parsley and cilantro. It really elevates the whole dish.

Variations

Swap out the feta for goat cheese for a creamier texture.
Add in avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats, making your salad even richer.
Mix in diced cucumbers or radishes for a crunchier bite, adding lovely contrast to the soft lentils.

Feel free to get creative! That’s what makes cooking fun.

Storage Tips

This salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it in an airtight container, and consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to keep the salad fresh. This way, you can enjoy the same delightful flavors later in the week!

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Mediterranean lentil salad with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It also complements a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with a twist of lime. Each bite, paired with a refreshing drink, makes for a wonderful dining experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, canned lentils work well in this recipe; just rinse and warm them up slightly before mixing.

2. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. What else can I add to this salad?
Feel free to add cucumbers, avocado, or even chickpeas for variation and added nutrition.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

5. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and add the dressing just before serving.

This Mediterranean lentil salad is a winning dish that promises both flavor and nutrition. Its bright colors and vibrant taste make it perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing lunch. Incorporating fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing creates an unforgettable salad that delights the palate. Enjoy every mouthful!