Cold Lentil Salad

Servings: 2 Difficulty: Intermediate
A hearty, protein-packed salad with earthy lentils and bright citrus dressing
Cold Lentil Salad recipe image

This cold lentil salad is a robust and satisfying dish that stands up well to bold flavors. Brown or green lentils hold their shape perfectly after cooking, providing a pleasant chewy texture. Tossed with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it offers a perfect balance of earthy and bright notes. It’s an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or picnic lunches. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Simple, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, this salad is a reliable favorite for any occasion.

Cold Lentil Salad

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 2 Calories: 69.6

Description

This cold lentil salad is a robust and satisfying dish that stands up well to bold flavors. Brown or green lentils hold their shape perfectly after cooking, providing a pleasant chewy texture. Tossed with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, it offers a perfect balance of earthy and bright notes. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or picnic lunches. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Simple, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, this salad is a reliable favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of lentils thoroughly under cold water and pick out any debris.
  2. Place lentils in a medium saucepan and cover with 2 inches of water.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy.
  4. Drain any excess water and spread lentils on a baking sheet to cool completely to room temperature.
  5. While lentils cool, chop fresh vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  6. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a simple dressing.
  7. Combine cooled lentils, chopped vegetables, and dressing in a large bowl.
  8. Toss gently to coat evenly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2


Amount Per Serving
Calories 69.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 1.2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 12.0g4%
Dietary Fiber 4.7g19%
Sugars 1.1g
Protein 5.4g11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: lentil, salad, cold, healthy, vegan, vegetarian, protein, meal prep, lunch, side dish, gluten free, earthy, herbs, lemon, fiber, plant based, picnic, potluck, easy, budget friendly
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