Are you ready to elevate your salad game with a burst of Middle Eastern flavor? This Lentil Vegetable Salad with Miso Harissa Dressing is not just a dish; it's a vibrant celebration of textures and tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing! Packed with protein-rich lentils and a medley of fresh vegetables, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or a stunning side dish at your next gathering. And the best part? It comes together in just 40 minutes! Read on to discover how to whip up this deliciously healthy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Lentils, cooked
- Bell peppers, diced
- Cucumber, diced
- Red onion, diced
- Miso paste
- Harissa paste
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup of dry lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
- In a medium saucepan, combine lentils with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- While lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables: dice 1 red bell pepper, 1 cucumber, and 1/2 red onion into small, uniform pieces.
- Drain the cooked lentils and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons miso paste, 1 tablespoon harissa paste, 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils with the diced vegetables.
- Pour the miso harissa dressing over the lentil and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Ensure you rinse your lentils well before cooking to remove any dust or debris. This simple step will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Lentils: Keep an eye on your lentils while they cook. You want them tender but not mushy, so start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes after mixing will help the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even shredded carrots can add a delightful twist to this salad.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a little more harissa paste, or if you like it milder, reduce the amount.
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it within a day or two for optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
