Easy Lentil Salad (No Soaking Required!)
Enjoy a nutritious lentil salad made easily and quickly without the need to pre-soak the lentils!
This recipe offers a simple way to prepare a lentil salad without the hassle of pre-soaking. The combination of fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked lentils, enhanced by a tangy and sweet dressing, creates a healthy and delicious salad. It’s perfect for a light meal or can be served alongside bread or rice for a more substantial dish.
Main Ingredients
- 75g lentils (approx. 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 medium carrot
- 1/4 medium onion
- 500ml water (for cooking lentils)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water. This step removes any dust or impurities clinging to the beans.
Step 2
Drain the rinsed lentils using a sieve. It’s okay if a little water remains.
Step 3
Wash the carrot, peel it, and then slice it thinly into a fan shape. This creates a nice texture and visual appeal in the salad. Thin slices cook well.
Step 4
Peel the onion and cut it in half. This onion will infuse flavor while cooking and will be removed later.
Step 5
In a pot, combine the prepared lentils, the halved onion, sliced carrot, 500ml of water, and the Italian herb mix. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat.
Step 6
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of lentils.
Step 7
After 20 minutes, drain the cooked lentils and vegetables completely using a sieve. This ensures the salad won’t be watery.
Step 8
Remove and discard the boiled onion halves. The onion served its purpose of flavoring the water and can be removed as it’s not typically eaten whole in the salad.
Step 9
In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients: whole grain mustard, mustard sauce, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Whisk them together with a fork or whisk until well combined and emulsified. Proper mixing creates a smooth dressing.
Step 10
Add the drained lentils and vegetables to the dressing. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are coated with the dressing. Your delicious lentil salad is ready!
