Go Back
+ servings
Crunchy Lentil Salad

Crunchy Lentil Salad: A Fresh, Protein-Packed Delight

This Crunchy Lentil Salad is a delightful mix of textures and vibrant flavors, perfect for gatherings and meal prep.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Plant-Based
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad Base
  • 1 cup Dried Green Lentils Substitution: Black lentils can be used for a different visual appeal.
  • 1 piece Red Bell Pepper Substitution: Any bell pepper variety works fine.
  • 1 cup Red Grapes Substitution: Dried cranberries offer a chewy contrast instead.
  • 1/2 piece Cucumber Substitution: Zucchini works well if cucumbers are out of season.
  • 2 cups Kale Substitution: Spinach or mixed greens can substitute for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Roasted Hazelnuts Substitution: Walnuts or pecans give a different flavor profile.
For the Dressing
  • 1 piece Lemon Zest Substitution: Lime zest can add a unique twist.
  • 1 piece Lemon Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano Substitution: Dried oregano can be adjusted for potency.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 clove Garlic
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Equipment

  • medium pot
  • Colander
  • Large bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse 1 cup of dried green lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the lentils with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 18-20 minutes until tender yet slightly firm. Drain and cool.
  2. Chop your vegetables: Dice one red bell pepper and half a cucumber into bite-sized pieces, halve a cup of red grapes, and chop two cups of kale. Roughly chop half a cup of roasted hazelnuts. Set aside in a large bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the zest and juice of one lemon, and a tablespoon of fresh oregano. Add a quarter cup of olive oil, one minced garlic clove, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well.
  4. Once cooled, add the lentils to the large bowl with the chopped vegetables, grapes, and hazelnuts. Gently fold together to combine.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy full freshness and crunch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for meal prep; store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days, keeping dressing separate until serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!