Protein Packed Mediterranean Lentil Salad
Fresh, vibrant, and satisfying, this Protein Packed Mediterranean Lentil Salad is the perfect combination of flavor and nourishment. Featuring green lentils, crunchy veggies, creamy feta, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, it's an easy recipe great for meal prep, quick lunches, or healthy dinner ideas. This hearty salad is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and loaded with plant-based protein, making it one of the best food ideas for a balanced lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber diced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup green beans trimmed and halved
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Rinse lentils under cold water and cook with 3 cups of water for 20–25 minutes until tender. Drain and cool.
- 2. While lentils cook, prep the vegetables: halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, slice red onion, chop roasted red peppers.
- 3. Blanch green beans in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to ice water.
- 4. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
- 5. In a large bowl, combine lentils, all vegetables, and dressing. Toss gently to coat.
- 6. Top with crumbled feta and fresh dill. Toss again gently and serve.
Notes
Use canned lentils for convenience but rinse thoroughly.
Add feta and fresh herbs just before serving for best texture.
Toss gently to avoid breaking apart the lentils and vegetables.
Nutrition
Serving: 1bowlCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 18gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 520mgFiber: 12gSugar: 6g
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