Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemony Lentil Salad with Feta is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tangy lemon, creamy feta, and earthy lentils creates a balanced, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a healthy addition to your meal prep, this salad has you covered. Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, and a burst of flavor from the fresh ingredients, it’s a must-try recipe that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• ⅓ cup lemon juice
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 2 15-ounce cans lentils, rinsed, or 3 cups cooked brown or green lentils
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, (about 4 ounces)
• 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup diced seedless cucumber
• ½ cup finely chopped red onion

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, chopped dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
3. Add the lentils to the bowl and toss them gently to coat with the dressing.
4. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese, diced red bell pepper, cucumber, and chopped red onion.
5. Toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the salad for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 0 minutes (if using canned lentils)

Variations

• Add some chopped olives or capers for a briny, savory twist.
• For a more substantial salad, try adding cooked quinoa, bulgur, or couscous.
• Swap the feta cheese for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for extra greens and flavor.
• Try adding roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for more texture.

Storage/Reheating

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to improve as it sits, so it’s a great dish to make ahead. Since it’s a cold salad, there’s no need to reheat, but you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use dry lentils instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just cook 3 cups of dry lentils (about 1 ½ cups uncooked) according to package instructions before adding them to the salad.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or a dairy-free cheese alternative for a different flavor.

3. How can I make this salad spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep.

5. Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in the vegetables and feta. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a few days in the fridge.

6. Can I use a different herb besides dill?

You can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or basil to suit your taste.

7. How can I add more protein to this salad?

To increase the protein content, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.

8. Can I use a different type of mustard?

You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for a different flavor.

9. Can I add more vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Try adding diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, or roasted beets for more variety and color.

10. How long does the dressing last?

The lemon dressing can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just shake or whisk it again before using.

Conclusion

This Lemony Lentil Salad with Feta is a delightful and wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its tangy dressing, fresh veggies, and protein-rich lentils, it’s perfect for a light meal or a side dish. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just craving something fresh, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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