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- Lentils: I love using green or brown lentils for this salad. They cook well and hold their shape. Rinse and drain them before cooking for the best taste. Boil them for about 20-25 minutes until tender, but not mushy. - Fresh Vegetables: Freshness matters! I choose a small red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a bell pepper. Look for bright colors and firm textures. This makes a big difference in flavor and crunch. - Dressing components: A simple dressing brings everything together. I mix olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. This adds a fresh kick. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Gather all these ingredients for a vibrant dish. Check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps. To cook the lentils, start by boiling water. Use a medium pot and add 3 cups of water. Bring it to a boil. Then, add 1 cup of lentils. Reduce the heat to low and let them simmer. Cook for about 20 to 25 minutes. You want them tender but not mushy. After cooking, drain the lentils and let them cool. This cooling step helps keep the salad fresh. Now, let's get the veggies ready. Chop the red onion finely for a nice bite. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber and bell pepper. Aim for pieces that are similar in size. This way, every spoonful has a mix of flavors. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables. Add the sliced olives and chopped parsley to this mix. Once the lentils have cooled, it's time to mix everything. Add the lentils to the bowl with the vegetables. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients. This helps the flavors blend well. For a creamy touch, sprinkle feta cheese on top if you like. Let the salad sit for a few minutes. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For the full recipe, check out the details above! To make your Mediterranean Greek lentil salad shine, you need to balance flavors. Start with salt and pepper, then taste as you go. If it’s bland, add more lemon juice or olive oil. A splash of vinegar can also brighten the dish. You can customize your salad by changing some ingredients. Swap cucumbers for bell peppers or add spinach for more greens. Each change can alter the taste and texture. Get creative with herbs too! Fresh mint or dill can add a lovely twist. When serving, think about colors and textures. Use a large white bowl to make the salad pop. Layer the salad, starting with lentils and then adding veggies on top. This keeps it neat and appealing. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese. This adds color and texture. For a fun touch, serve with lemon wedges. It gives guests a chance to add more flavor if they want. {{image_2}} You can change up your Mediterranean Greek lentil salad with different veggies. Try adding diced carrots for sweetness. Zucchini adds a nice crunch, and spinach boosts color and nutrients. If you want a new twist, use roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. Lentils are great, but different types can change your dish. Green lentils hold their shape better, while brown lentils are softer. Red lentils cook quickly and give a creamy texture. Choose based on what you like! This salad is already vegan and gluten-free, making it easy for many diets. If you want a heartier version, add cooked quinoa or farro. These grains pack protein and fiber, making your meal more filling. You can also top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. This adds flavor and makes the salad a complete meal. For those who want to keep it simple, just stick to the original recipe. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to enjoy this fresh flavor boost! To keep your Mediterranean Greek Lentil Salad fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work well. When storing, let the salad cool to room temperature first. This helps prevent moisture buildup inside the container. Place the salad in the fridge right after it cools down. Your salad will last about three to five days in the fridge. For meal prep, divide the salad into single servings. This way, you can grab a quick meal anytime. You can also use it in wraps or as a side dish. Just remember to add fresh ingredients, like parsley or feta, just before eating for the best flavor. Can I make this salad in advance? Yes, you can make this salad in advance. It tastes great after sitting in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container. The flavors blend well over time. I recommend making it one day ahead for the best taste. What can I pair with lentil salad for a complete meal? You can pair this salad with many foods. Grilled chicken or fish works well. You can also serve it with pita bread or hummus. If you want a vegetarian option, try adding roasted vegetables or a veggie wrap. How do I ensure lentils are cooked perfectly? To cook lentils perfectly, use the right water ratio. For one cup of lentils, use three cups of water. Bring the water to a boil before adding the lentils. Lower the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Test them around the 20-minute mark. They should be tender but not mushy. For more details, check the Full Recipe. This blog gave you all you need for a Mediterranean Greek lentil salad. We explored key ingredients like quality lentils and fresh veggies. You learned how to cook lentils and prepare your ingredients. I shared tips for perfecting flavors and plating your dish. You can also experiment with variations to suit your tastes. Remember to store leftovers properly and enjoy the salad's great shelf life. Create this salad and serve it with pride! Your culinary skills will shine, and your meals will benefit.

Mediterranean Greek Lentil Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean Greek Lentil Salad that's not just healthy but also delicious! This easy recipe combines lentils, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing for a perfect side dish or a light meal. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a colorful salad bursting with nutrients. Ready to impress your family and friends? Click through to explore this simple, mouthwatering recipe and elevate your cooking today!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the lentils, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool.

    While the lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.

      In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

        Once the lentils have cooled, add them to the bowl with the vegetables.

          Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.

            If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4