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Easy • Vegetarian

Hearty Lentil and Feta Salad

A vibrant and satisfying vegetarian salad packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh veggies, and tangy feta.

Prep
20 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Hearty Lentil and Feta Salad

Looking for a salad that actually fills you up? This Hearty Lentil and Feta Salad isn't just delicious, it's a complete meal in a bowl! Packed with wholesome lentils, crisp vegetables, and salty feta, it's perfect for meal prep or a light, yet satisfying, dinner.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

For the Lentils

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

For the Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Salad

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: Handful of fresh mint, chopped

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cook the lentils: Combine rinsed lentils, vegetable broth (or water), and bay leaf (if using) in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but still hold their shape. Drain any excess liquid and discard the bay leaf. Let cool slightly.

  2. Step 2

    Make the dressing: While lentils are cooking, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or jar.

  3. Step 3

    Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled lentils, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped parsley (and mint, if using).

  4. Step 4

    Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  5. Step 5

    Serve immediately, or chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad is also excellent for meal prepping throughout the week!

Tips

  • Add some chopped bell peppers or Kalamata olives for extra color and flavor.
  • For a vegan option, simply omit the feta cheese. Add toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.

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