Lentil Salad with Feta, Tomatoes, Cucumbers & Olives

 

This colourful lentil salad is a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and fresh Mediterranean flavors. It’s mild, refreshing, and easy to make, perfect as a lunch, dinner side, or picnic dish.

 

Ingredients (Serves 2–four)

Salad:

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium cucumber, diced

half of cup pitted olives (Kalamata endorsed), sliced

1/three cup crumbled feta cheese

2–3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

1 small garlic clove, minced

1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Salt and black pepper to flavor

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils:

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water.  Bring to a boil, lessen warmth, and simmer for 20–25 mins till smooth however nonetheless firm. Drain excess liquid and let the lentils cool.

2. Prepare greens:

While the lentils are cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, cube the cucumber, slice the olives, collapse the feta, and chop the parsley.

3. Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and modify seasoning.

4. Combine the salad:

In a huge bowl, mix the cooled lentils with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until flippantly lined.

5. Finish with feta:

Sprinkle crumbled feta over the top for a creamy, salty assessment. Optional: add a few more parsley leaves or a wedge of lemon for garnish.

 Tips & Variations

Protein raise: Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein.

Herb variations: Swap parsley with mint or cilantro for a different flavor.

Make ahead: The salad can be prepared some hours earlier. Keep feta separate till serving to save you it from softening too much.

Serving concept: Enjoy it on its personal, as a aspect to grilled vegetables, or with warm pita bread.

This lentil salad is nutritious, colourful, and full of Mediterranean flavors. The aggregate of soft lentils, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta creates a fulfilling texture and flavor. The easy olive oil and vinegar dressing ties the whole lot collectively, making it refreshing but flavorful.

It’s an excellent dish for a healthful, mild meal or as a flexible aspect. This salad is also vegan-pleasant if you alternative feta with a plant-based cheese or pass over it completely.

Nutrition (approximate in line with serving):

Calories: 250–300

Protein: 12g

Fiber: 10g

Fat: 12g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Packed with fiber, protein, nutrients, and minerals, this salad helps digestion, heart fitness, and sustained strength. Its colourful colorings and clean ingredients also make it visually appealing, best for circle of relatives meals or enjoyable guests.

This simple, flavorful salad is a extraordinary addition to any meal plan. Its Mediterranean elements make it coronary heart-wholesome, nutrient-dense, and versatile enough to adapt along with your favorite veggies, herbs, or dressings.