Mediterranean Lentil Salad
	
		A refreshing and nutritious Mediterranean Lentil Salad packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy vinaigrette.
	 
	
		
							- Author: sarra
 
							- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 
							- Cook Time: 25 minutes
 
							- Total Time: 40 minutes
 
							- Yield: 4 servings 1x
 
							- Category: Salad
 
							- Method: Boiling, Chilling
 
							- Cuisine: Mediterranean
 
							- Diet: Vegetarian
 
					
	 
	
		
		
			
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
 
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
 
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
 
- 1 cucumber, diced
 
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
 
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
 
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
 
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
 
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
 
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
 
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
 
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
 
- 1 garlic clove, minced
 
- Salt and pepper to taste
 
		 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Rinse lentils and place them in a pot with water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool.
 
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta cheese (if using), parsley, and mint.
 
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
 
- Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to combine.
 
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
 
		 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
 
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
 
- Great as a side dish or a light main course.
 
		 
	 
	
		Nutrition
		
							- Serving Size: 1 cup
 
							- Calories: 280
 
							- Sugar: 3g
 
							- Sodium: 320mg
 
							- Fat: 12g
 
							- Saturated Fat: 3g
 
							- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
 
							- Trans Fat: 0g
 
							- Carbohydrates: 30g
 
							- Fiber: 9g
 
							- Protein: 12g
 
							- Cholesterol: 10mg
 
					
	 
	
		Keywords: Mediterranean Lentil Salad, vegetarian salad, healthy lentil salad, protein salad, meal prep