Whenever I think about a refreshing and vibrant dish to brighten up my plate, the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad always comes to mind. This salad has been a staple in my kitchen, especially during those lovely spring days. Picture a sunny afternoon, the aroma of fresh herbs mingling with zesty lemon fills the air, and you’ve got this delightful dish ready to serve. The combination of flavors in the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is not just satisfying but also bursting with nutritional benefits. Each bite brings a lovely crunch from the walnuts and a hint of warmth from the herbs, making it an ideal side or a complete meal on its own.

One of my fondest memories involves preparing this salad for a cozy picnic with friends. We laid out a blanket in a lush green park, and as we shared stories, the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad became the star of our feast. Everyone was asking for the recipe! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, yet it feels fancy enough for any occasion. With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, it not only looks stunning but also makes you feel good with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a meal by yourself, this salad is sure to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Saucepan, Chef’s Knife

What Makes This Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad Special

Nutritious and Filling

One of the best things about the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is how nutritious it is. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, making this dish filling without being heavy. They are also low in calories, which is perfect if you’re looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Vibrant Flavor Profile

The fresh herbs and zesty lemon juice create a vibrant flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully. The basil and thyme offer a fragrant herbaceous note, while the lemon juice adds a delightful tang that brightens the entire dish.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or even as part of a picnic spread. It’s great for gatherings, and you can easily double the recipe to accommodate a larger crowd.

Easy to Prepare

Making the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is a breeze. It requires minimal cooking and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests or family. Just toss the ingredients together, and you’re set!

Customizable Ingredients

If you’re feeling creative, you can customize this salad to suit your tastes. Add in your favorite veggies or swap out the nuts for seeds if you’re looking for a different texture. This adaptability makes it appealing to various palates.

Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly

Lastly, this salad is budget-friendly and environmentally conscious. Lentils are often more affordable than meat, and using seasonal vegetables and herbs can help reduce your grocery bill while supporting local farmers.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad

The ingredients in the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The main component, green lentils, provides a hearty base, rich in protein and fiber. Fresh herbs like basil and thyme elevate the dish with their fragrant qualities, while the lemon juice adds a zesty brightness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in this salad, harmonizing beautifully for a refreshing meal.

1 cup green lentils, dry – These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious foundation for the salad.
1/4 cup basil leaves, fresh, chopped – The sweet and aromatic flavor of fresh basil enhances the overall taste.
1 lemon, juiced – The juice from a fresh lemon brings a bright, tangy flavor that lifts the dish.
1 bay leaf – Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the lentils as they cook.
2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt – Essential for seasoning the lentils properly during cooking.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and a smooth texture, complementing the other ingredients.
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped – These nuts provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tender lentils.

Instructions for Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad

Making the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is not only fun but also straightforward! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive into the process together!

Start by rinsing the green lentils under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or impurities. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils, kosher salt, and bay leaf. Pour in about 3 cups of water. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat, making sure to keep an eye on it.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing the lentils to simmer gently. Cook for about 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on the water level; if needed, add more water to prevent them from drying out.
When the lentils are cooked to your liking, remove them from heat and let them cool to room temperature. This is a crucial step, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once cooled, transfer them to the refrigerator until they’re chilled.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled lentils with the basil leaves and any thyme leaves you’ve chosen to use. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and squeeze the juice of the lemon over the top. Give everything a gentle toss to coat the lentils evenly.
Next, add the chopped walnuts to the salad. They’re optional but highly recommended for that satisfying crunch! Toss everything together once more, ensuring that each ingredient is well mixed.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt or additional lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor. This is your chance to make the dish truly yours!
Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors deepen and develop further, making each bite even more delicious. When ready, serve it chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad as a stand-alone meal or as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled veggies or your favorite protein. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Lentils: Keep a close watch on your lentils as they simmer. They should be tender but not mushy for the best texture.
Chilling Time: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to combine beautifully, so don’t skip this step!
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality olive oil for a rich, flavorful dressing. It makes a noticeable difference!
Herb Freshness: Always opt for fresh herbs when possible. Dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant flavor as fresh ones.

Expert Tips about Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad

When it comes to perfecting the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad, a few expert tips can elevate your dish even further. Here’s a collection of insights to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to three days, with flavors improving as it sits.
Freezing: While fresh lentil salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked lentils separately. Thaw and mix with fresh ingredients when ready to serve.
Pairing: The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or fish. It’s also fantastic on its own!
Serving Temperature: This salad is delicious served cold or at room temperature. It makes it perfect for potlucks or picnics.
Variations: Feel free to add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color. Customize it to your liking!

Best Served With

The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is an incredibly versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

As a Standalone Meal: Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner option. It’s filling and satisfying on its own, especially on warm days.
With Grilled Proteins: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-rounded meal. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
At Picnics or Potlucks: This salad is a hit at gatherings. Its bright colors and fresh taste make it a crowd-pleaser!
As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside hearty dishes like roasted vegetables or quinoa for a balanced plate.
For Meal Prep: Make a larger batch at the start of the week for easy, nutritious lunches. It holds well in the fridge!
Seasonal Pairings: In spring, pair it with asparagus or peas. During summer, enjoy it with tomatoes or cucumbers.

FAQ

The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is packed with nutrients, primarily due to the inclusion of green lentils. These legumes are a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils provide a healthy foundation for this salad, making it filling yet low in calories. Additionally, the fresh herbs and vegetables contribute valuable antioxidants and phytonutrients, enhancing not only the flavor but also the overall health benefits of the dish. This combination makes it a great choice for a balanced diet!

Absolutely! One of the best things about the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is its versatility. You can easily swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, consider adding diced cucumbers for extra crunch, or cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. You can also experiment with different nuts or seeds to change the texture. Just remember to keep the essential components like green lentils and fresh herbs to maintain the salad’s original flavor profile!

You can store the Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. As it sits, the flavors will continue to meld and develop, making it even more delicious the next day. If you have leftovers, it’s best to keep them chilled and consume them within this time frame to ensure freshness. If you prefer to enjoy it later, consider freezing the cooked lentils separately, then tossing them with fresh ingredients when you’re ready to enjoy!

Yes! The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. It’s a great option for those looking for a nutritious meal that aligns with their dietary needs. Moreover, you can customize the salad further to fit specific requirements, such as reducing the amount of oil or modifying the seasoning. Overall, it’s a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed by many!

Conclusion

The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad stands out for its vibrant flavors, nutritional benefits, and versatility. It’s a perfect dish to make when you want something refreshing yet filling. I encourage you to give it a try! Whether for a casual family meal or a fancy gathering, this salad will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. You won’t regret making this delightful dish!

Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad

The ultimate comfort food with a twist! The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is a refreshing mix of protein-packed lentils, vibrant herbs, and zesty lemon. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make salad will brighten your table and satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: French

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup green lentils
1/4 cup basil leaves fresh, chopped
1 lemon juiced
1 bay leaf
2 teaspoons kosher or sea salt
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup walnuts chopped

Equipment

Large Pot
Saucepan
Chef's Knife

Method

Start by rinsing the green lentils under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or impurities. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils, kosher salt, and bay leaf. Pour in about 3 cups of water. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat, making sure to keep an eye on it.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, allowing the lentils to simmer gently. Cook for about 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on the water level; if needed, add more water to prevent them from drying out.
When the lentils are cooked to your liking, remove them from heat and let them cool to room temperature. This is a crucial step, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once cooled, transfer them to the refrigerator until they’re chilled.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chilled lentils with the basil leaves and any thyme leaves you’ve chosen to use. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and squeeze the juice of the lemon over the top. Give everything a gentle toss to coat the lentils evenly.
Next, add the chopped walnuts to the salad. They’re optional but highly recommended for that satisfying crunch! Toss everything together once more, ensuring that each ingredient is well mixed.
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt or additional lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor. This is your chance to make the dish truly yours!
Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors deepen and develop further, making each bite even more delicious. When ready, serve it chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad as a stand-alone meal or as a vibrant side dish alongside grilled veggies or your favorite protein. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!

Notes

The Herby Lemony French Lentil Salad is a delightful dish that is as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld further. You can also freeze the cooked lentils separately for versatile meal options!