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Mediterranean Lentil Salad

Mediterranean Lentil Salad

This salad brings the flavors of the Mediterranean coast right to your fork. My cousin first made it on a breezy afternoon picnic—tangy lemon, fresh herbs, and hearty lentils all danced in harmony. It’s nourishing, colorful, and so simple to prepare, whether as a main dish or a vibrant side.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dressing:

Juice of 2 large lemons

12 garlic cloves, minced

Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste

½ to 1 tsp Urfa Biber (or Aleppo pepper/red chili flakes) – optional

⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

For the Salad:

1 cup black or green lentils, rinsed

1 bay leaf

1 English cucumber, chopped

1 red bell pepper (fresh or roasted), chopped

1 orange bell pepper, chopped

2 green onions, chopped

½ cup chopped fresh parsley

½ cup chopped fresh mint

Instructions

In a pot, combine lentils, bay leaf, and water (covering by 2 inches). Bring to a boil, then simmer 20–25 min until tender. Drain and discard bay leaf.

In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and Urfa Biber. Slowly whisk in olive oil.

In a large bowl, mix lentils, cucumber, peppers, onions, parsley, and mint.

Pour dressing over the salad and toss well.

Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Vibrant, filling, and utterly refreshing—this is your go-to for a heart-healthy, flavor-packed

Nutrition