Best Vegan Lentil Salad Recipes for Healthy Meals

Vegan lentil salads are a delightful way to combine nutrition, flavor, and texture into a single vibrant dish. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, lentil salads offer a hearty, protein-packed option that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

From tangy dressings to crunchy veggies and fresh herbs, these salads can be customized to suit any palate. Plus, lentils are incredibly budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making them ideal for quick lunches or impressive dinner sides.

Get ready to fall in love with these best vegan lentil salad recipes that will brighten your mealtime and nourish your body.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate. These salads are not only satisfying but also easy to prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute meals.

The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and vibrant dressings brings out the best in each ingredient, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Whether you prefer Mediterranean-inspired flavors, zesty citrus notes, or spicy accents, these recipes cater to all tastes and occasions. Plus, they’re naturally vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy them without worry.

With these salads, you get a wholesome, colorful dish that can stand alone or complement your favorite meals beautifully.

Ingredients

Classic Mediterranean Lentil Salad

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Spicy Lentil and Avocado Salad

• 1 cup cooked red lentils
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen (thawed)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• Salt, to taste

Herbed Lentil and Quinoa Salad

• 1/2 cup cooked lentils
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Medium saucepan for cooking lentils
• Strainer or colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Optional: Salad spinner (for washing greens/ herbs)
• Serving bowls or containers

Instructions

Classic Mediterranean Lentil Salad

1. Cook the lentils: Place rinsed lentils in a saucepan and cover with water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While lentils are cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, slice the olives, and chop the parsley.
3. Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils and prepared vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Sprinkle dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
4. Toss and serve: Gently toss everything until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Spicy Lentil and Avocado Salad

1. Cook lentils: If not using pre-cooked lentils, cook red lentils in boiling water for 12-15 minutes until soft. Drain and cool.
2. Prepare the produce: Dice avocado, bell pepper, and chop jalapeño (if using). Chop cilantro.
3. Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix lentils, avocado, corn, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
4. Make the dressing: Whisk lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt in a small bowl.
5. Toss salad: Pour dressing over salad and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately for best freshness.

Herbed Lentil and Quinoa Salad

1. Prepare lentils and quinoa: Cook lentils and quinoa separately according to package instructions. Let cool.
2. Chop veggies and herbs: Dice carrots, chop green onions, mint, and basil.
3. Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine lentils, quinoa, carrots, green onions, and herbs.
5. Add dressing and toss: Pour dressing over salad and mix well. Chill for 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Tips & Variations

Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove dust and debris.

For extra crunch, add toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds to your salad.

Feel free to swap herbs based on availability; dill, cilantro, or chives work beautifully in these salads.

To make your salad more filling, add roasted sweet potatoes or steamed broccoli.

Leftover salads keep well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making them perfect for meal prep.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan lentil salads can be served as a nutritious main dish or a vibrant side. Pair the Classic Mediterranean Lentil Salad with warm flatbread or alongside your favorite grilled vegetables for a Mediterranean feast.

The Spicy Lentil and Avocado Salad works wonderfully as a topping for tacos or served with tortilla chips for a zesty snack. The creamy avocado balances the heat perfectly.

Try the Herbed Lentil and Quinoa Salad as a refreshing accompaniment to dishes like roasted tofu or vegan kebabs. It’s also great for packed lunches or picnic baskets.

For more creative and wholesome vegan recipes, check out these favorites: Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes, Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe, and Julie Marie Eats Recipes.

Conclusion

Vegan lentil salads are an easy, delicious way to boost your plant-based meal repertoire. These recipes offer a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and fresh flavors that keep you energized and satisfied.

Whether you’re preparing for a busy workweek or planning a weekend gathering, lentil salads provide a versatile, colorful option that’s sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can master these salads and customize them to their liking. Remember to experiment with herbs, spices, and textures to keep things exciting and fresh.

Dive into these best vegan lentil salad recipes today and enjoy the wholesome goodness they bring to your table!

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