Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will revolutionize your perception of salads! This Warm Lentil and Vegetable Salad is not just another side dish – it's a vibrant, nutrient-packed masterpiece that promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coastline. With its perfect balance of hearty lentils, crisp vegetables, and a luxurious sundried tomato dressing, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the green lentils thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or small stones.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- While lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the bell pepper and zucchini into uniform small cubes, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- For the sundried tomato dressing, finely chop the sundried tomatoes and mix them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the diced bell pepper and zucchini for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- Pour the sundried tomato dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Transfer the warm salad to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while still warm, enjoying the Mediterranean-inspired flavors and textures.
Tips
- Lentil Perfection: The key to this dish is cooking the lentils just right. They should be tender but still hold their shape – avoid overcooking, which can turn them mushy.
- Vegetable Crunch: When sautéing vegetables, keep them slightly crisp. This adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Dressing Magic: Chop sundried tomatoes finely to distribute their intense flavor evenly throughout the salad.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a bright, fresh note to the warm salad.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to add feta cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor and protein.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain the perfect temperature and texture.
- Serving Suggestion: This salad is delightful on its own but can also be paired with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
