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The Best Lentil Salad

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This is The Best Lentil Salad, a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for any sunny day. It combines protein packed green lentils, crunchy veggies, and a tangy lemon dressing! This dish is versatile, easy to prepare and fun to customize. Serve it poolside, at a BBQ, or packed for a picnic, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
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The Best Lentil Salad

This summer lentil salad is my go-to for those relaxing, sunny days when you want something fresh and satisfying without too much fuss. Born out of a craving for something light yet flavorful, this salad checks both boxes and hits the spot every time. Packed with crunchy veggies and a sweet and tangy oil-free dressing, it’s super satisfying and very easy to throw together. 

I love enjoying it by the pool and at a BBQ with friends! It would pack up perfectly for a picnic as well as it’s great for meal prep. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its vibrant flavors and simple prep. If you want all your friends to love you even more – make them this salad, it’s satisfying for every pallet and can easily be made as a side to your favorite grilled protein or as a main!

The Best Lentil Salad Recipe Ingredients

  • Green Lentils: Green lentils are the base of this salad, providing a hearty and nutritious foundation. They hold their shape well after cooking, making them perfect for salads. Green lentils are rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice. Their firm texture and mild, earthy flavor absorb the tangy dressing beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
  • Persian Cucumbers: Finely chopped Persian cucumbers add a refreshing crunch and a subtle sweetness to the salad. They are low in calories and high in hydration, making them a perfect addition to this summer salad recipe. Their crisp texture contrasts nicely with the tender lentils, creating a satisfying bite that’s both light and refreshing.
  • Red Onion: The finely chopped red onion adds a bit of sharpness and depth of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients. Red onions are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Their slight pungency enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad, making it more vibrant and complex. You can also swap this for white onion if you prefer a more mild onion.
  • Yellow Sweet Corn: Use canned, fresh or frozen yellow sweet corn for this recipe. Corn provides a burst of sweetness and a pop of color. Corn is a good source of vitamins B and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Its natural sweetness and juicy texture complement the other ingredients, adding a visual contrast and a burst of flavor.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Bring a chewy texture and an intoxicating sweetly tart flavor. Make sure to use the soft variety that is not packed in oil s for the best texture. These tomatoes infuse the salad with a concentrated tomato flavor that enhances the overall taste. I used these ones.
  • Fresh Dill: Finely chopped fresh dill adds a slightly tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients. It also smells amazing and will bring its aromatic qualities to the dish.
  • Roasted Pistachios: Add a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch to this lentil salad. They are also a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. You can use any nut or seed you’d like!

Tangy Lemon Dressing Ingredients

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice ties the whole dressing together with its tart but sweet and tangy flavor. The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the tahini and pistachios, balancing the flavors perfectly.
  • White Balsamic Vinegar: White balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness and richness to the dressing, balancing the flavors of the dressing without overpowering them. It enhances the salad’s overall taste, making the dressing more complex and interesting.
  • Tahini: Make sure to use runny tahini for a creamy texture and rich, nutty flavor. Tahini is made from sesame seeds and is a good source of healthy fats and protein. It adds a luscious creaminess to the dressing, making it both nutritious and indulgent.
  • Maple Syrup: Maple syrup provides a natural sweetness that complements the tanginess of the lemon and vinegar without refined sugars.
  • Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a slight tang and helps emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth and creamy texture. It also adds a bit of heat and complexity, making the dressing more flavorful.
  • Garlic Powder: Provides a mild, savory flavor that blends seamlessly into the dressing, enhancing the overall taste. It provides depth and a slight kick, making the dressing more robust and aromatic.
cooked green lentils in a wooden bowl

What Are Lentils?

Lentils are small legumes that come in various colors, including green, brown, and red. They are a staple in many cuisines due to their nutritional value and versatility. Lentils are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. I love boiling, roasting and blending lentils to create a variety of different recipes. They are mild but incredibly tasty without any additions! 

Different Types of Lentils

There are several types of lentils, each with unique characteristics. Green lentils hold their shape well after cooking, making them ideal for salads. Brown lentils are versatile and are often used in soups and stews. Red lentils cook quickly and are perfect for purees and curries, they get soft easily but are quick to prepare.

Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are high in protein and fiber, which helps keep you full and supports digestive health. Lentils are also rich in iron, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals! They are a great addition to your pantry and can be enjoyed in so many ways.

Can I Use a Different Lentil for this Salad?

While green lentils are preferred for this salad due to their ability to hold their shape, you can use other types of lentils if needed. Brown lentils and black lentils would both be good substitutes, but avoid red lentils as they tend to become mushy when cooked.

How to Make The Best Lentil Salad

This salad is incredibly quick to make and easy! Just follow a few steps and customize as you desire along the way. 

How to Cook Lentils

Cooking lentils is straightforward and super quick. Rinse them under cold water, then bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the lentils and a bay leaf for added flavor. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until tender but still firm. Drain and rinse with cool water before using in the salad.

Prepare the Dressing

While the lentils are cooking and cooling, prepare the dressing by adding all the ingredients to a jar and using a hand frother to blend until emulsified and creamy.  I’m obsessed with this hand frother, it’s quick and effective! Alternatively, you can whisk with a fork, but it won’t get as thick and creamy.

Assemble the Salad

Add all the salad ingredients to a large bowl, including the cooled lentils. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper. This salad is best prepared at least an hour in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

chopped sun-dried tomatoes on a wooden cutting board

What Are The Best Sun-Dried Tomatoes For This Recipe?

For this recipe, it’s best to use soft sun-dried tomatoes that are not packed in oil. They should be tender and not too salty. These sun-dried tomatoes will blend well with the other ingredients and add a chewy texture and sweet-tart flavor to the salad. These are the exact same ones I used for this recipe!

Lentil Salad Serving Suggestions

This lentil salad is versatile and can be served in many ways. Enjoy it as a main dish for a light and nutritious lunch, or serve it as a side dish alongside your favorite grilled protein. It’s also perfect for potlucks, picnics, and BBQs as you can increase the amount to share with plenty. 

Ways to Customize Your Lentil Salad

Customizing your lentil salad is a great way to make it uniquely yours and suit your personal taste preferences. Here are some delicious ideas:

  • Add More Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for added color and crunch.
  • Change Up the Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding chickpeas, edamame, crumbled feta cheese. Or grilled crispy tofu. These ingredients not only increase the protein content but also add different flavors and textures.
  • Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint. Each herb brings a unique flavor profile to the salad, allowing you to create new and exciting variations each time you make it.
  • Add Fruits for Sweetness: Incorporate fruits like pomegranate seeds, diced apples, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Fruits can add a delightful contrast to the savory elements.
  • Switch up the Nuts or and Seeds: Top your salad with sliced almonds, toasted sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds for an added crunch.
  • Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce. Spicy elements can add a new dimension of flavor to the salad, catering to those who love a bit of kick in their meals.

Why You Should Make This Lentil Salad

This lentil salad is a must-make because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, it’s a healthy choice for any meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and hearty lentils makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a tasty and healthy option ready to go all week long.

If you liked this recipe make sure you leave a comment and review below! Don’t forget to try these other summer favorites:

Quinoa Corn Layered Salad

Lemon Poppyseed Pasta Salad

Avocado Citrus Salad

Jackie Akerberg

Author of the Clean Vegan Cookbook, Food Blogger and Recipe Developer from Des Moines, Iowa. 

Jackfruitful Kitchen has proudly been featured in Forks Over Knives, Vegan Bowls, Vegan Food and Living, and DSM Magazine.

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Jackie Akerberg

The Best Lentil Salad

5 from 4 votes
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This is The Best Lentil Salad, a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for any sunny day. It combines protein packed green lentils, crunchy veggies, and a tangy lemon dressing! This dish is versatile, easy to prepare and fun to customize. Serve it poolside, at a BBQ, or packed for a picnic, this salad is sure to become a favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad, Side Dish
Calories: 376

Equipment

  • stove

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 1 cup green lentils
  • 4 Persian cucumbers, finely chopped
  • ¼ red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup frozen yellow sweet corn, thawed
  • ½ cup soft sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
  • ⅓ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup roasted, salted, shelled pistachios, chopped
Tangy Lemon Dressing Ingredients
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 3 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp tahini, make sure it’s runny
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • salt and pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Start by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a boil. Add the lentils and cook for 15 minutes - you do not want them to be too mushy! Drain and rinse with cool water. Set aside.
  2. While the lentils are cooking and cooling, prepare the dressing by adding all the ingredients do a jar and using a hand frother to blend until emulsified and creamy! Alternatively, you could whisk with a fork, but it won't get as thick and creamy!
  3. Add all the ingredients for the salad to a bowl, including the lentils, and drizzle with the dressing. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Toss to combine. This salad is best prepared an hour in advance.

Nutrition

Serving 1servingCalories 376kcalCarbohydrates 60gProtein 20gFat 9gSaturated Fat 1gPolyunsaturated Fat 3gMonounsaturated Fat 4gSodium 42mgPotassium 1317mgFiber 20gSugar 15gVitamin A 645IUVitamin C 30mgCalcium 97mgIron 6mg

*Macros are provided as an estimate for convenience. Your final numbers will vary depending on ingredient brands, substitutions, and how you portion the recipe.

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7 Responses

  1. 5 stars
    The title is correct! Absolutely yummy, quick and easy!! Will definitely make again. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply

  4. 5 stars
    What a delicious salad. Thank you so much for sharing your delicious recipe with us. 😊😊

    Reply
5 from 4 votes

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