The Best Lentil Salad Ever
This recipe was created and is called the best lentil salad ever. I serve this over a small bed of baby arugula, and top the salad with some crumbled goat cheese for a healthy, tasty meatless meal. Other optional add-ins are walnuts, fresh herbs and sprouts.
This recipe was created and is called the best lentil salad ever. I serve this over a small bed of baby arugula, and top the salad with some crumbled goat cheese for a healthy, tasty meatless meal. Other optional add-ins are walnuts, fresh herbs and sprouts.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 red onion finely diced
- 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons capers drained
- 8 ounces dry lentils
- 1/2 tablespoon stone ground mustard
- 1/2 cup raisins or 1/2 cup dried currant
- Carbohydrate 36.9773768871244 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.54923350060184 g
- Fiber 18.0688065340316 g
- Protein 15.2412639677255 g
- Saturated Fat 0.499958552292443 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (89g)
- Sodium 196.432809240088 mg
- Sugar 18.9085703530928 g
- Trans Fat 0.242524758623629 g
- Calories 239 calories
Step-by-step
- Rinse lentils well, drain.
- Place in a pot and cover with 3-4 inches of water, bring to a boil, reduce to simmer.
- Check lentils for doneness after 10 minutes, but they should take about 15 minutes in total. They are cooked if they still retain a slight tooth – al dente! (Overcooking the lentils is the death of this dish)
- Drain & rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- In a small bowl, make the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, mustard and all the spices (salt through cinnamon).
- In a large serving bowl, gently combine the lentils and dressing.
- Add the onions, cranberries and capers and stir to combine well.
- If using other add-ins such as herbs, greens, or cheese, wait to add until just before serving. Otherwise, this salad can hang out in the fridge for as long as a couple days!
The Best Lentil Salad: A Busy Woman's Delight
As a busy professional, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Juggling work deadlines, client meetings, and the never-ending to-do list often leaves me scrambling for quick, convenient options. But let me tell you, sacrificing taste and nutrition doesn't have to be the default setting for a busy lifestyle. This lentil salad has become a lifesaver, a true culinary gem that fits seamlessly into my hectic schedule.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its incredible flavor but also in its versatility and ease of preparation. The vibrant combination of lentils, herbs, and a tangy dressing creates a symphony of tastes that's both satisfying and incredibly refreshing. I often make a large batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge, ensuring I have a healthy and delicious lunch ready to go for the entire week. This saves me precious time and prevents me from falling prey to less nutritious options during those frenzied workdays.
Why this lentil salad is a game-changer:
- Time-efficient: The cooking time is minimal, and the assembly takes mere minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meal prep.
- Versatile: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins to suit your taste and what you have on hand. Walnuts, sunflower seeds, chopped cucumbers, or even crumbled feta cheese can elevate the flavor profile to new heights. This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs.
- Healthy and nutritious: Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this salad a powerhouse of nutrients. It's a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without compromising on deliciousness.
- Delicious cold or at room temperature: This is a huge advantage for packing lunches or enjoying a picnic in the park. The flavors meld beautifully as the salad sits, enhancing the overall taste.
- Make ahead friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it all week long. The flavors deepen and improve over time!
Beyond its practicality, this lentil salad is a source of genuine satisfaction. Knowing I'm nourishing my body with a delicious and healthy meal, even amidst the chaos of my daily life, brings a sense of calm and well-being. It’s a small act of self-care that makes a big difference. It reminds me that prioritizing healthy eating doesn't have to be a struggle; it can be a source of joy and sustenance.
The vibrant colors alone are enough to brighten up any lunch break or dinner table. But it’s the harmonious blend of flavors – the earthiness of the lentils, the tang of the vinegar, the sweetness of the maple syrup – that truly sets this salad apart. It’s a taste of freshness and vitality, a perfect complement to a busy life.
So, the next time you find yourself overwhelmed by your schedule, remember this lentil salad. It's a simple yet powerful reminder that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. It can be easy, enjoyable, and a delicious way to nourish yourself, even amidst life's demands. Enjoy!
