Craving a nutritious and filling dish? This quinoa and lentil salad is the perfect match for you. Packed with protein and vibrant flavors, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of textures and taste. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a side dish, or a light dinner, this recipe has you covered.
This salad is your go-to for meal prepping or impressing friends at a potluck. The combination of earthy lentils, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies creates a delightful harmony that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it only takes a little over 30 minutes to whip up!
Want to spice things up? Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices. This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.
Colorful Ingredients for a Nutritious Meal
This quinoa and lentil salad is brimming with a variety of fresh vegetables. The vibrant hues of red bell pepper, green cucumber, and juicy cherry tomatoes not only enhance its visual appeal but also contribute to a nutrient-rich profile.
Quinoa and lentils are fantastic sources of protein and fiber, making this dish incredibly satisfying. When combined with crunchy veggies, each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Simple Preparation Steps
Creating this salad is an uncomplicated process. Start by cooking the quinoa and lentils separately, ensuring each ingredient retains its unique texture.
Once cooked, mix the quinoa and lentils in a large bowl along with the colorful vegetables. The addition of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh taste.
Adding a Zesty Dressing
The dressing plays a key role in bringing all the flavors together. A simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices can elevate this salad from good to great.
Whisk these ingredients together and drizzle them over the salad just before serving. This light dressing glistens in the sunlight, enhancing the fresh look of the dish.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This quinoa and lentil salad is versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, preparing a side dish for dinner, or looking for a potluck contribution, this salad fits the bill.
It serves beautifully on a rustic wooden table, presenting a wholesome meal that’s sure to impress guests.
Health Benefits to Enjoy
Beyond its great taste and appealing presentation, this salad is packed with health benefits. Quinoa and lentils provide essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, and various vitamins.
Eating a salad like this regularly can contribute to overall health, making it a smart choice for meal prep or a refreshing option for a hot day.
Customization Options
One of the great things about this salad is its adaptability. Feel free to personalize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Substitute vegetables or incorporate seasonal produce to keep it exciting.
This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy the salad often without it becoming repetitive, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Nutritious Quinoa and Lentil Salad Recipe
This quinoa and lentil salad is a hearty, nutritious dish that combines protein-rich quinoa and lentils with crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing. It’s a satisfying meal with a refreshing taste, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and 2 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Cook the lentils: In another saucepan, combine lentils and 3 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for approximately 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, lentils, diced bell pepper, cucumber, onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour over the quinoa and lentil mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad warm or chilled, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g