Greek Lentil Salad Recipe

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

Greek Lentil Salad Recipe
  1. Cook lentils in 3 cups water 20–25 minutes until tender; drain and cool.
  2. Whisk vinaigrette ingredients until emulsified.
  3. Combine cooled lentils, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, parsley, and mint in large bowl.
  4. Pour dressing over; toss gently. Fold in feta if using.
  5. Chill 15 minutes or serve immediately.

Flavor Variations

VariationKey Add/SwapResulting Twist
VeganSkip fetaPlant-powered brightness
Roasted PeppersJarred roasted redsSmoky sweetness
Avocado CreamDiced avocadoSilky richness
Spicy FetaChili flakes in dressingGentle 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.

Print

Greek 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.

  • Author: ssam
  • 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

Scale
  • 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

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