Ina Garten Lentil Salad Recipe
The Ina Garten Lentil Salad Recipe is a fresh, healthy, and flavorful salad. Tender lentils, crisp vegetables, and a light dressing make it perfect for lunch or dinner. It's easy to prepare and keeps well for meal prep.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Strainer
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- French green lentils – 1 cup, rinsed
- Water or vegetable broth – 3 cups
- Bay leaf – 1
- Red onion – 1 small, finely chopped
- Red bell pepper – 1, diced
- Yellow bell pepper – 1, diced
- Cucumber – 1 small, diced
- Fresh parsley – 1/2 cup, chopped
- Fresh mint – 1/4 cup, chopped
- Olive oil – 1/4 cup
- Red wine vinegar – 3 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Feta cheese – 1/4 cup, crumbled, optional
Instructions
Cook the Lentils
- Place lentils in a medium saucepan with water or broth and bay leaf. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes. Drain and cool slightly.
Prepare the Vegetables
- While lentils cook, chop red onion, red and yellow bell peppers, and cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste for balanced flavor.
Combine Salad Ingredients
- Add cooked lentils to the chopped vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Stir in parsley and mint gently, keeping lentils intact while mixing.
Add the Dressing
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients without crushing the lentils.
Finish with Feta
- If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy, salty contrast. This adds extra texture and richness.
Serve or Chill
- Serve immediately for a fresh, warm salad or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and enhance the taste.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for best flavor
- Cook lentils until tender but firm
- Add feta just before serving to keep it fresh
- Store in fridge up to 3 days