A Refreshing Red Lentil Salad Recipe with Fresh Herbs
When you’re looking for a nutritious and flavoursome dish that’s perfect for warm weather, a red lentil salad with fresh herbs is a wonderful option. This dish combines the earthy richness of red lentils with the vibrant freshness of herbs to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, this salad is not only tasty but also incredibly nourishing. Let’s dive in and explore how to create this delightful red lentil salad with a flavorful twist of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 200g red lentils
– 1 red onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
– A handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 4 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cooking the Lentils:
– Begin by rinsing the red lentils under cold water.
– In a saucepan, add the lentils and cover with water.
– Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
– Drain any excess water and set aside to cool.
2. Preparing the Salad:
– In a large bowl, combine the cooked red lentils, chopped red onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, cucumber, and tomato.
– Add the freshly chopped parsley and mint to the bowl.
3. Making the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
– Adjust the seasonings to taste.
4. Combining the Salad:
– Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
– Gently toss everything together until the salad is well coated with the dressing.
5. Chilling and Serving:
– Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
– Before serving, give the salad a final stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
– Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavour.
Benefits of Fresh Herbs in the Salad:
Including fresh herbs like parsley and mint in your red lentil salad not only enhances the taste but also brings a host of health benefits. Parsley is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Mint is known for its digestive benefits and adds a refreshing zing to the salad. Combining these herbs with the protein-packed red lentils creates a well-rounded and nutritious dish.
Serving Suggestions:
This red lentil salad with fresh herbs makes a fantastic standalone meal, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal. Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favourite vegetables or incorporating different herbs to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re looking to add more plant-based protein to your diet, embrace the goodness of fresh herbs, or simply enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal, this red lentil salad with fresh herbs is sure to tick all the boxes. Easy to prepare, versatile, and bursting with flavour, this salad is a must-try for anyone seeking a nutritious and satisfying dish. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps outlined above, and treat yourself to a bowl of this delightful salad that will leave your taste buds singing. Cheers to good food and good health!