published Oct 28, 2022, updated May 31, 2023 It’s hard to beat the taste of Mediterranean food and Greek dishes are some of my absolute favorites. Today’s recipe is a cold salad that you can make in about 30 minutes. It is hearty and satisfying without weighing you down. It’s a great on-the-go lunch option and makes a wonderful side dish as well. Greek lentil salad is perfect on a warm autumn day, but it is just as good the whole year round. If you are looking for other meatless Mediterranean options, check out my Greek Feta Salad, Mediterranean Chickpea Salad, or Mediterranean Barley Salad. You can also continue down the culinary Silk Road and check out some Asian inspired recipes such as Pai Huang Gua (Chinese Cucumber Salad) or Thai Mango Salad. There are so many fantastic flavors in the world! Also remember that you can always toss a few pieces of chicken, shrimp or tofu in the mix if you need an extra protein boost.
INGREDIENT NOTES AND SUBSTITUTIONS
Lentils – I choose brown lentils for their mild, earthy taste and firmness. You can use red for a sweeter, nuttier taste or green for a more peppery effect. Bay Leaf – Used to lighten up dishes with a slightly menthol, slightly eucalyptus aroma. Olives – This superfood adds texture and bright, tangy flavor to the recipe. Cherry Tomatoes – Add acidity, color, and vibrancy to the salad. I prefer cherry tomatoes because they look beautiful and maintain their shape well. If you only have regular tomatoes on hand, that’s okay — dice them up and toss them in!Bell Peppers and Onion – Both of these ingredients add crispness and a subtle amount of spice. English Cucumber – A superior cucumber for fresh salads. English cucumbers and Persian have skin and seeds that are far more digestible than regular cucumbers, plus a slightly sweeter taste. You can substitute whatever cucumbers you have available, but you may want to remove the skin.Fresh Mint – This highly aromatic herb freshens the dish and adds a pop of enlivening flavor. Feta Cheese – This sharp, salty cheese adds tanginess and complexity to the recipe. Goat cheese or queso fresco would be good substitutes.Olive Oil – Forms the base of the dressing and adds a mild nutty flavor. Red Wine Vinegar – Adds a pop of brightness and tanginess. Balsamic or apple cider vinegar will also work. Tahini – Made from pureed sesame seeds, tahini adds an earthy, nutty smoothness to the dressing. Garlic – This highly pungent ingredient adds a savory heat to the salad. Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor while not tasting overly salty. You can use whatever salt you have available though. Paprika – Brings a sweet and mild heat to the table and adds a lovely dash of color.
HOW TO MAKE GREEK LENTIL SALAD
How Do You Serve Greek Lentil Salad?
Lentil salad is best served when it has had ample time to chill and marinate. It makes a great lunch on a hot day or can be served with dinner as a side dish. I enjoy serving it alongside some of my favorite chicken dishes such as Marinated Tahini Chicken or Mediterranean Grilled Chicken.
Is Lentil Salad Healthy?
Absolutely! Greek lentil salad is not only delicious, it is packed to the gills with nourishing ingredients. Fresh vegetables and herbs deliver high doses of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the lentils offer a healthy amount of fiber. And, of course, we can’t forget about all the healthy fats brought by the olives and olive oil. It is basically a superfood salad.
What is a Traditional Greek Salad Made Of?
Traditionally, Greek salad is made with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives, feta and mint. This Greek lentil salad has all the ingredients of the original with the addition of lentils, making it just as irresistible with a bit more substance.
