Delicious Lentil and Quinoa Salad for a Nutritious Meal

Name: Lentil and Quinoa Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 1 cup green or brown lentils; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; ½ cup red onion, finely chopped; ½ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

June 1, 2025

Updated:

June 1, 2025

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Lentil and Quinoa Salad is like a party in a bowl – colorful, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine the earthy flavor of lentils dancing with the nutty crunch of quinoa, all while being showered with a medley of fresh veggies. This salad is more than just food; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and fills your belly with happiness.

Thinking about a meal that’s not only delicious but also nutritious? Look no further! This Lentil and Quinoa Salad provides an explosion of flavors that’ll make you feel like you’ve hit the culinary jackpot. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just wanting to impress your lunch buddies.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lentil and Quinoa Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights
The flavors are vibrant and fresh, appealing to both the eyes and palate
You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have at home, ensuring versatility
It’s perfect as a standalone meal or a side dish at gatherings

Sharing this salad with my friends led to wide eyes and happy smiles after their first bite – it was love at first fork!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Quinoa: Rinse before cooking to remove its natural coating for better flavor.
Lentils: Use green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well during cooking.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy; they add freshness and color to the salad.
Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing; it balances the heartiness of lentils and quinoa.
Red Onion: Finely diced for a sharp bite that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Parsley or Cilantro: Fresh herbs bring brightness and elevate the overall taste of the salad.
Lemon Juice: Adds acidity that brightens all ingredients while enhancing their natural flavors.
Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness; use high-quality extra-virgin for best results.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together harmoniously.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by preparing your quinoa: Rinse one cup under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until water runs clear. Then, combine rinsed quinoa with two cups of water in a pot over medium heat.

Bring it to a boil! Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

While your quinoa is resting like it’s on vacation, grab another pot for those lovely lentils. Add one cup of rinsed lentils along with three cups of water into a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil too—yes, we’re boiling our way to culinary success!

Reduce the heat again after boiling; cover and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water when done cooking – nobody wants soupy salad!

Now it’s time for some chopping therapy! Dice up those cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. The colors will brighten up your kitchen as you slice through them.

In a large mixing bowl, add your fluffy quinoa, cooked lentils, chopped veggies, finely chopped parsley or cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until everything is combined beautifully – kind of like creating art but edible!

Finally, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly. When you’re ready to serve this masterpiece, garnish with additional herbs or lemon wedges if you like!

Now you have a delightful Lentil and Quinoa Salad that not only fills you up but also makes your taste buds dance! Enjoy every bite knowing you’re treating yourself right!

You Must Know

Lentil and Quinoa Salad is not just a dish; it’s a colorful explosion of flavors!
The nutty taste of quinoa pairs perfectly with the earthy lentils
This salad is versatile, making it ideal for any occasion, from lunch to dinner parties

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the quinoa according to package instructions while simmering lentils in another pot. This multitasking saves time and ensures everything is fresh and warm when mixed.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on your preference. Try adding diced bell peppers or a handful of spinach for added crunch and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, simply microwave until warm, stirring occasionally.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect texture, rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness
Ensure lentils are tender but not mushy to maintain their shape
Adding lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors beautifully

The first time I made Lentil and Quinoa Salad, my friends devoured it so fast that I barely got a taste! Their enthusiastic compliments still make me chuckle.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for lentils in this salad?

Try chickpeas or black beans for a different texture and flavor profile.

Can I make Lentil and Quinoa Salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance for flavors to meld beautifully.

Is Lentil and Quinoa Salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

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