Lentil Salad, perfect for a light summer meal

Here’s a refreshing and nutritious Lentil Salad, perfect for
a light summer meal. This recipe serves 4 people and is
packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and fresh flavors.

Summer Lentil Salad
(serves 4)
Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup crumbled low fat feta cheese (optional)
• Mixed greens or arugula, for serving
  
  Instructions

1. Cook the lentils: In a medium saucepan, bring the
   water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the lentils, reduce
   the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25
   minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain
   and rinse with cold water to cool them quickly. Set aside.
2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk
   together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon
   mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the
   cooked lentils, cucumber, red bell pepper, cherry
   tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint. Pour the dressing
   over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Add optional toppings: If using, gently fold in the
   crumbled feta cheese.
5. Serve: Serve the lentil salad over a bed of mixed
   greens or arugula. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
   Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, without feta)

• Calories: 290
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 13g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 11g
  Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, with feta)
• Calories: 340
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 13g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 14g
  
  This Summer Lentil Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish,
  perfect for a warm day. It’s nutritious, satisfying, and can
  be easily customized with your favorite seasonal
  vegetables. Enjoy this salad as a main dish or a side for
  your summer gatherings!