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Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing

The Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad with Lemon Herb Dressing is a delightful mix of nutritious ingredients. This salad is easy to make and packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. It’s a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at your next gathering.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to enjoy this Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad. First, it is full of healthy ingredients that provide energy and keep you full longer. Lentils and chickpeas are excellent sources of protein, making this salad a great option for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Additionally, the fresh veggies and herbs add vibrant flavors, and the lemon herb dressing brings everything together. It’s not only healthy, but it’s also refreshing and satisfying.

How to Make Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad

Ingredients:

1/2 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
1 cup water
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped cucumber
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

Cook the Lentils: In a small saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chickpeas, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. If you like, add the feta cheese.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve: Serve the salad immediately or chill for later. This salad is great on its own or as a side dish.

How to Serve Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad

You can serve this salad as a main dish or a side. It goes well with grilled chicken or fish. You can also enjoy it on its own for a light meal. The salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a while.

How to Store Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If the salad seems dry after storing, you can add a little extra olive oil or lemon juice before serving.

Tips to Make Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad

Rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
Add more vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition.
If you want a spicy kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Dried herbs can be used but may not taste as vibrant.

Variation

Feel free to substitute or add other ingredients based on your preferences. You can use quinoa instead of lentils or add roasted vegetables for a different texture. This salad is versatile and can be modified to suit your taste!

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! The Chickpea and Lentil Power Salad is gluten-free, making it a good option for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you prefer quicker preparation, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the salad.