Lemony lentil and rice salad with tomatoes, cucumber and herbs

Discover a refreshing and nutritious lemony lentil and rice salad loaded with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, dill, parsley, and zesty lemon juice. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish, this easy-to-make salad combines wholesome ingredients for a delightful burst of flavor.

03 Apr 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1/4 cup lentils
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1.50 cups water
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup dill
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/2 cucumber
1 cup white rice
4 onions
Lemony lentil and rice salad with tomatoes, cucumber and herbs

This vibrant and refreshing Lemony Lentil and Rice Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumber, and Herbs is the perfect dish for a light lunch or a hearty side. Packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon, it's both nutritious and delicious. The fresh herbs elevate the flavors, making every bite a delight.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water.
- Place lentils in a small saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender but not mushy.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse the white rice under cold water.
- Combine the rice and 1.5 cups of water in a medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs:
- Quarter the cherry tomatoes.
- Dice the cucumber.
- Chop the fresh dill and parsley.
- Slice the green onions finely.
4. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, rice, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, chopped dill, parsley, and sliced green onions.
5. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp of olive oil, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp of salt.
6. Dress the Salad:
- Pour the lemony dressing over the lentil and rice mixture.
- Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
7. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Enjoy:
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your refreshing and nutritious Lemony Lentil and Rice Salad!

Tips:

- Rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

- Cook the lentils and rice separately to ensure each is perfectly done.

- Let the rice and lentils cool down to room temperature before mixing with the other ingredients to maintain the salad's freshness.

- Add the lemon juice and olive oil gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve your desired level of acidity.

- For added flavor, consider roasting the cherry tomatoes slightly before adding them to the salad.

- Mix half the herbs into the salad for flavor and use the other half as a garnish for a fresh, vibrant presentation.

This Lemony Lentil and Rice Salad offers a beautiful medley of textures and flavors that will brighten up any meal. It's easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it ideal for a healthy and satisfying dish. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste experience, and savor the harmony of lemon, herbs, and vegetables.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 230kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 2.95g
Sugar 3.00g
Fat 11g

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