Lentil Feta Salad

Bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Lentil Feta Salad is a wholesome, protein-packed dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or a vibrant side at your next gathering. Tender green or brown lentils form the hearty base, complemented by crisp English cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a touch of red onion for balanced crunch and zest. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint bring a refreshing brightness, while creamy crumbles of feta cheese add a savory richness. Tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette, this salad is a delightful medley of textures and flavors. Ready in just 35 minutes and easily customizable, it’s a great make-ahead recipe that tastes even better as the flavors meld. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this healthy salad is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
• 3 cups water
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 1 medium English cucumber
• 1.5 cups cherry tomatoes
• 0.5 medium red onion
• 0.75 cup feta cheese
• 0.25 cup fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and pick out any debris or stones.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils, 3 cups of water, and the bay leaf. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and remove the bay leaf. Set the lentils aside to cool.

Step 4

While the lentils are cooling, prepare the vegetables. Dice the cucumber into small bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion. Chop the parsley and mint leaves as well.

Step 5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint.

Step 6

Crumble the feta cheese over the top and gently mix to combine.

Step 7

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.

Step 8

Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1749.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1052.2

Total Fat 68.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 21.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.7g
Cholesterol 100.1mg	0%
Sodium 2522.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 77.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.5g	0%
Total Sugars 18.1g
Protein 40.7g	0%

Vitamin D 18IU	0%
Calcium 852.7mg	0%
Iron 13.7mg	0%
Potassium 2237.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 56.5%

Protein: 15.0%

Carbs: 28.5%