Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing

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Fresh, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying, this Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing is a celebration of bold flavors and nourishing ingredients. Earthy lentils mingle with crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta, all brought together with a bright, zesty lemon dill dressing. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a hearty side, or a meatless main, this dish delivers a Mediterranean flair that never fails to impress.

What makes this salad truly shine is its balance of textures and flavors. The lentils provide a protein-packed base, while the vegetables add crunch and color. Fresh dill gives it a herbal kick, and the lemon dressing adds just the right tang. It’s also a perfect make-ahead recipe for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating this salad is simple, but a few key kitchen tools will make the process smoother and more efficient:

• Medium Saucepan: To cook the lentils evenly without overcooking.
• Fine-Mesh Strainer: Essential for rinsing lentils and draining excess water post-cooking.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Where all the magic happens—perfect for combining the lentils, veggies, and dressing.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: Crucial for slicing cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions evenly.
• Citrus Juicer: Helps extract every drop of juice from your lemon for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Whisk or Small Jar with Lid: To blend the dressing ingredients into a smooth, emulsified mixture.

These tools not only streamline your prep but also help preserve the texture and freshness of your ingredients.

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Ingredients for the Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing

Each ingredient in this salad has a distinct role in crafting a well-balanced dish:

• Green or Brown Lentils: These hold their shape well when cooked and serve as the hearty, protein-rich foundation.
• Cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch and a cooling element to balance the briny and zesty components.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they offer vibrant color and a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Kalamata Olives: Deeply savory and briny, they enhance the Mediterranean essence of the dish.
• Red Onion: Provides a sharp bite and a pop of color, rounding out the vegetable profile.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbly and creamy, it adds richness and a salty contrast to the tangy dressing.
• Fresh Dill: The hero herb in the dressing—its aromatic, slightly citrusy notes elevate the entire salad.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil forms the base of the dressing, adding silkiness and depth.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Bright and tangy, it cuts through the richness and ties all the flavors together.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent punch that lingers subtly in the background of the dressing.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients into harmony.

How To Make the Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

Rinse 1 cup of green or brown lentils under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer. Transfer to a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake until emulsified.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies

Dice 1/2 an English cucumber, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, thinly slice 1/4 of a red onion, and slice or pit 1/3 cup of Kalamata olives.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped vegetables, and 1/3 cup crumbled feta. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Dill

Garnish with extra fresh dill and a final drizzle of olive oil if desired. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

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How to Serve and Store Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing

This salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Serve it slightly chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor. It pairs beautifully with grilled fish, chicken, or warm pita bread and hummus for a complete Mediterranean spread. You can even spoon it over a bed of arugula or baby spinach to make it more of a leafy salad.

As for storage, it holds up remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. If preparing in advance, consider adding the feta and fresh herbs right before serving for the freshest taste.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent lentils from turning mushy?

Make sure not to overcook them. Simmer gently and check for doneness after 20 minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape.

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes! Just make sure to rinse and drain them well. You’ll need about 2 1/2 cups of canned lentils to replace 1 cup dried.

Is there a substitute for fresh dill?

If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill can be used in a pinch (use 1 teaspoon). Alternatively, parsley or mint adds a different but lovely freshness.

How do I make this vegan?

Simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based feta alternative.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely. This salad keeps well in the fridge and actually tastes better as the flavors develop over time.

What if I don’t like olives?

You can skip them or substitute with chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a different briny note.

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Want More Salad Ideas with Mediterranean Flair?

If you’re loving the bright, herbaceous notes in this Mediterranean Lentil Salad, check out these other inspired dishes from Life With Olivia:

• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce — for a protein-rich pairing that complements the salad beautifully.
• Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread — perfect for scooping up every last bite.
• Mediterranean Feta Dipping Oil Recipe — ideal as a side or appetizer.
• Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup — a cozy companion when you need something warm with your salad.

And for more fresh and flavorful recipes, visit my Pinterest board: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

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Have you tried this Mediterranean Lentil Salad? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you add extra lemon? Skip the feta? Maybe throw in some roasted red peppers?

Share your spin in the comments below! Your ideas could inspire someone else’s next meal.

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