Fresh Mediterranean Lentil Salad

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Fresh Mediterranean Lentil Salad, a nourishing, flavor-packed dish that's perfect as a light meal or a side. This recipe combines protein-rich green lentils with crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty red onion, all tossed in a bright lemon-garlic dressing. Fragrant fresh parsley and mint add a burst of herbal freshness, while creamy crumbled feta cheese ties it all together. Ready in just 35 minutes, this salad is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, wholesome addition to your Mediterranean-inspired menu. Perfect for those seeking healthy, vegetarian options bursting with bold flavors!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup green lentils
• 3 cups water
• 1 medium cucumber
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 0.5 medium red onion
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley
• 0.25 cup fresh mint
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Directions

Step 1

Rinse 1 cup of green lentils under cold water to remove any debris or dust.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low and simmer the lentils uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set the lentils aside to cool.

Step 4

While the lentils are cooking, finely dice 1 medium cucumber and halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes. Dice half a medium red onion. Chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley and 1/4 cup of fresh mint.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.

Step 6

In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, two minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Step 7

Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss until everything is well combined.

Step 8

Gently fold in 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese just before serving.

Step 9

Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a delightful and refreshing dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1569 grams (1569.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1020

Total Fat 69.70g	89%
Saturated Fat 23.20g	116%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 100mg	33%
Sodium 2496mg	109%
Total Carbohydrate 69.90g	25%
Dietary Fiber 20.90g	75%
Total Sugars 17.30g
Protein 39.20g	78%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 754mg	58%
Iron 10mg	56%
Potassium 1776mg	38%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 59.0%

Protein: 14.7%

Carbs: 26.3%