"Delicious and Nutritious Lentil Salad Recipe: A Perfect Healthy Meal for Any Occasion"

#### Lentil Salad RecipeLentil salad is not only a vibrant and colorful dish, but it is also packed with nutrients that make it an excellent choice for a he……

#### Lentil Salad Recipe

Lentil salad is not only a vibrant and colorful dish, but it is also packed with nutrients that make it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Lentils are legumes that are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a fantastic addition to any diet. This lentil salad recipe combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing to create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

#### Ingredients

To prepare this lentil salad, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of lentils (green or brown)

- 2 cups of water or vegetable broth

- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1 cucumber, diced

- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

- 1 small red onion, finely chopped

- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/4 cup of feta cheese (optional)

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the dressing:

- 3 tablespoons of olive oil

- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice

- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard

- 1 garlic clove, minced

#### Instructions

1. **Cook the Lentils**: Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the lentils and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and let them cool.

2. **Prepare the Vegetables**: While the lentils are cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. **Make the Dressing**: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

4. **Combine Everything**: Once the lentils have cooled, add them to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined.

5. **Add Finishing Touches**: If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley on top for added flavor and garnish.

6. **Serve**: This lentil salad can be served immediately, but it tastes even better if allowed to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve it as a main dish or as a side to complement grilled meats or fish.

#### Nutritional Benefits

This lentil salad recipe is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegetarians and vegans. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. The variety of vegetables in this salad adds essential vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

#### Conclusion

Incorporating this lentil salad recipe into your meal rotation can provide you with a nutritious and satisfying option that is easy to prepare. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a healthy snack, this lentil salad is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this delightful dish!