Print

Quick Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Feta

Close-up of a vibrant lentil salad mixed with halved cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh parsley.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this fresh, protein-packed Mediterranean lentil salad quickly. It is great for meal prep or a light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for cooking
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
  • For the Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette:
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the rinsed lentils, water or broth, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and let the lentils cool slightly.
  2. While the lentils cook, prepare the vinaigrette. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, pepper, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled lentils, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese (if using), parsley, and mint.
  4. Pour the zesty lemon vinaigrette over the lentil and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed. Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes for flavors to meld. This salad is excellent for meal prep and tastes good cold or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use French green lentils for the best texture that holds up well during meal prep.
  • If you skip the feta cheese, this recipe remains vegan and still tastes bright.
  • You can roast vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini and add them for extra flavor and color.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://fooddexterity.com/quick-mediterranean-lentil-salad/