Description
Lentil Tomato Basil Summer Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines protein-rich lentils with juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. This refreshing salad is perfect for summer gatherings, offering a satisfying yet light meal option. With its zesty dressing and colorful ingredients, it's sure to impress your guests at picnics, potlucks, or BBQs. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this salad will be your go-to recipe for warm-weather occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green or brown lentils (cooked)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves (sliced)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse lentils under cold water. In a pot, combine with 3 cups of water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain and cool.
- While lentils cook, chop cherry tomatoes, slice red onion, and prepare fresh basil.
- Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine lentils, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and basil. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For added creaminess, consider mixing in feta cheese or avocado. - Substitute cucumbers for cherry tomatoes for a different twist. - Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes after mixing to enhance flavors.