Lentil Salad with Roasted Peppers and Herbs
Earthy lentils meet sweet roasted peppers in this protein-packed salad with a bright lemony herb dressing. Perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook lentils: Bring 3 cups water to boil, add lentils and 1/2 tsp salt. Reduce heat, simmer 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and spread on a sheet pan to cool slightly.
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Make dressing: Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
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Add warm lentils to dressing and toss. Lentils absorb dressing best when warm.
Tip: Dressing warm lentils is the secret to maximum flavor penetration. -
Add roasted peppers, red onion, parsley, and mint. Toss gently.
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Let sit at least 10 minutes for flavors to develop. Taste and adjust salt and lemon before serving.
Storage & Meal Prep
Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a strong meal-prep salad. The lentils absorb the dressing as it sits, so refresh leftovers with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
FAQ
Is lentil salad good for meal prep?
Yes. Lentil salad holds up very well in the refrigerator for several days and usually tastes better after the flavors have time to meld.
Can I use canned lentils for lentil salad?
Yes. Canned lentils work well if they are drained and rinsed, though French green lentils or brown lentils give the best firm texture.
What goes well with lentil salad?
Lentil salad pairs well with grilled fish, roast chicken, feta, yogurt sauces, or simply warm pita and extra herbs for a simple Mediterranean meal.
Nutrition Facts
Customize Ingredients
Per Serving
The Story Behind This Dish
This lentil salad is the answer to “what should I make for lunch this week?”
It holds up beautifully in the fridge, actually improving after a day or two as flavors deepen. The protein and fiber keep you full without heaviness.