LEMONY LENTIL SALAD with DILL, CUCUMBER & FETA

This Greek inspired lentil salad hits all the right notes—crunchy, creamy, light-yet-filling, and bursting with bright flavors. The lemony dressing will seem like too much at first, but the lentils will absorb it over time. French green lentils are worth seeking out—they have a wonderful nutty flavor and do not get mushy like other lentils. I also love French feta if you can find it—it is milder and creamier than other varieties.

LEMONY LENTIL SALAD with DILL, CUCUMBER AND FETA

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serves 6

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup French green lentils

• 3 cloves garlic, one peeled and two minced

• zest of two lemons

• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

• 1 medium red bell pepper, small diced (about 1 cup)

• 1 small cucumber, small diced (about 1 cup)

• cherry tomatoes, diced (about 1 cup)

• 1/2 small red onion, small diced (about 1/2 cup)

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

• 1/3 cup chopped fresh mint

• 3/4 cup feta, small diced

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place lentils, one peeled garlic clove, and a big pinch of salt in a medium pot of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until lentils are tender and cooked through but not falling apart, about 30 minutes. Drain, then place in a large bowl.

2. While lentils are cooking, make the dressing by whisking together the two minced garlic cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Add dressing to the still-warm lentils and allow to cool completely.

3. While lentils are cooling, chop veggies, herbs, and feta. After chopping the tomatoes and cucumbers, place in a colander lined with paper towels for at least 10 minutes to absorb excess liquid. Add all veggies and herbs to the cooled lentil mixture. Stir in feta last. Season to taste with salt and pepper.