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In the realm of healthy and delicious cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of freshness and flavor quite like a Chilled Mediterranean Lentil and Tomato Salad. This vibrant salad, brimming with colorful vegetables and hearty lentils, not only embodies the spirit of the Mediterranean diet but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether served as a light lunch, a side dish, or a complete dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its delightful combination of textures and tastes.

Cold Lentil and Tomato Salad

Discover the refreshing flavors of a Chilled Mediterranean Lentil and Tomato Salad, perfect for any meal! This vibrant dish features nutrient-rich lentils combined with fresh vegetables like juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and colorful bell peppers. Drizzled with a zesty dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, it’s both delicious and healthy. Enjoy this versatile salad as a light lunch, side dish, or a complete dinner, and impress your family and friends with its delightful taste and stunning presentation.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1/4 red onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Zest and juice of 1 lemon

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water (or vegetable broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and let cool.

    Prep the Veggies: While the lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.

      Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and fresh parsley. If you’re using feta cheese, add that as well.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated.

            Chill and Serve: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light lunch.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour (including cooling) | 4 servings