Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Greek Lentil Salad with Feta! It’s one of those dishes that’s not only refreshing but also bursting with flavor and health benefits. Seriously, when I take a bite, I can practically feel my body thanking me! Packed with protein from the lentils and the creamy goodness of feta, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrition. Plus, it’s super versatile—great as a light lunch, a side dish at dinner, or even a picnic star! I remember the first time I made it; I tossed it together for a summer gathering, and everyone was raving about it. You’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat, trust me!
Ingredients for Greek Lentil Salad with Feta
Gather these fresh and vibrant ingredients to create your delicious Greek Lentil Salad with Feta:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to choose ripe, juicy tomatoes and a crisp cucumber for that extra burst of freshness! And when it comes to the feta, I like to get the good stuff—trust me, it makes a world of difference in flavor. You can even play with the amounts a bit based on your taste preferences; it’s all about what makes your taste buds happy!
How to Prepare Greek Lentil Salad with Feta
Cooking the Lentils
Let’s start with the lentils! First, rinse them under cold water to get rid of any debris. In a pot, combine the rinsed lentils and 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, and once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to let them cook for about 20-25 minutes until they’re tender but still hold their shape. Trust me, nobody wants mushy lentils! Once they’re done, drain them and set aside to cool. This cooling step is crucial—it helps keep the salad fresh and crisp!
Preparing the Salad
Now, let’s bring it all together! In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, crumbled feta, and chopped parsley. The colors are just stunning, aren’t they? I love how vibrant and fresh everything looks! Gently toss everything together, making sure each ingredient is well mixed. You want that feta to get cozy with the veggies for maximum flavor.
Making the Dressing
Next up, let’s whip up the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This is where you can really play with the flavors—taste as you go! If you like it a bit tangier, add a splash more vinegar. Just keep whisking until it’s well combined; it should be nice and smooth!
Combining the Ingredients
Now, pour that delicious dressing over your salad and give it another gentle toss. This is where the magic happens—everything gets coated in that lovely, zesty goodness! Serve your Greek Lentil Salad with Feta immediately for the freshest taste, or if you prefer, let it chill in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors meld even more. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious meal
- Refreshing flavors that brighten up any table
- Versatile—enjoy it as a main dish, side, or picnic delight
- Beautifully colorful, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Can be made ahead of time, making meal prep a breeze
Tips for Success
Here are my top tips to ensure your Greek Lentil Salad with Feta turns out perfectly every time! First, make sure to use fresh ingredients; they really elevate the dish. If you want to prep ahead, this salad can be made a day in advance—just wait to add the feta until right before serving to keep it fresh. Also, don’t skip the resting time in the fridge; it allows the flavors to blend beautifully. If you like a bit of crunch, toss in some chopped bell peppers or radishes just before serving. Enjoy your vibrant creation!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for your Greek Lentil Salad with Feta. Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 12g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Plus, you’ll get a healthy dose of fiber—around 12g! Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy your nutritious bowl of goodness!
FAQ About Greek Lentil Salad with Feta
Got some questions about making this delicious Greek Lentil Salad with Feta? No worries, I’ve got you covered!
Can I use other types of lentils? Absolutely! While green or brown lentils work best, you can also use black lentils for a different texture and flavor.
How long can I store leftovers? This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I make this salad vegan? Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free feta alternative for a delightful vegan version.
What other veggies can I add? Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, olives, or even some avocado would make a fantastic addition to this salad.
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions!
Serving Suggestions
This Greek Lentil Salad with Feta is so versatile—it pairs beautifully with so many dishes! I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome meal. You can also enjoy it with warm pita bread and hummus for a delightful Mediterranean feast. And if you’re looking for a lighter touch, a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad complements it perfectly. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this refreshing salad on your table!
Variations of Greek Lentil Salad with Feta
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with your Greek Lentil Salad with Feta! For a burst of flavor, try adding fresh herbs like dill or mint—both bring a lovely brightness. You can also spice it up with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin for a warm, earthy twist. Want a crunch? Toss in some diced bell peppers or radishes for extra texture. And if you’re a fan of a Mediterranean kick, sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes are fantastic additions. The beauty of this salad is that it’s totally customizable, so feel free to play around and make it your own!
For more delicious salad ideas, check out this healthy Mediterranean lentil salad recipe.
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Greek Lentil Salad with Feta: 7 Fresh Reasons to Love It
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing Greek lentil salad with feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse lentils under cold water.
- In a pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Drain lentils and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine lentils, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Adjust ingredients based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Greek Lentil Salad with Feta