Greek Lentil Salad combines protein-packed lentils with crisp cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy feta in a zesty lemon-oregano vinaigrette for Mediterranean freshness. Ready in 25 minutes, it’s vegan-adaptable and perfect for meal prep lunches.
Why This Recipe Works
- Lentils provide hearty base that holds dressing well.
- Fresh veggies deliver crunch and hydration.
- Feta adds salty creaminess without overpowering.
- Lemon dressing brightens earthy lentils.
- Herbs like parsley and mint enhance authenticity.
Ingredients & Prep
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils (or 2 cans drained)
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Lemon Vinaigrette:
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Cook lentils in 3 cups water 20–25 minutes until tender; drain and cool.
- Whisk vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified.
- Combine cooled lentils, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, parsley, and mint in large bowl.
- Pour dressing over; toss gently. Fold in feta if using.
- Chill 15 minutes or serve immediately.
Flavor Variations
| Variation | Key Add/Swap | Resulting Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Vegan | Skip feta | Plant-powered brightness |
| Roasted Peppers | Jarred roasted reds | Smoky sweetness |
| Avocado Cream | Diced avocado | Silky richness |
| Spicy Feta | Chili flakes in dressing | Gentle heat |
Storage Tips
Refrigerate up to 5 days. Flavors improve overnight.
FAQs
Lentils mushy?
Cook al dente and rinse cold.
Dressing separated?
Whisk again before tossing.
No fresh herbs?
Dried work at ⅓ amount.
Conclusion
Greek Lentil Salad offers wholesome Greek vibrancy nutritious and satisfying for any meal.
PrintGreek Lentil Salad Recipe
A bright and healthy Greek lentil salad made with tender lentils, crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Protein-packed, refreshing, and perfect for meal prep or a light meal.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or oregano (optional)
- Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Rinse lentils and add to a pot with water.
- 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 18–22 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- 3. Drain lentils and let cool slightly.
- 4. In a large bowl, combine lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, parsley, and herbs.
- 5. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- 6. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
- 7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 8. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for best flavor.
Notes
- Use French lentils for a firmer texture.
- Add roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Greek lentil salad, lentil salad recipe, Mediterranean lentil salad

