Curried Red Lentil Salad
Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant and hearty Curried Red Lentil Salad, a perfect fusion of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender red lentils provide a hearty base, paired with crunchy grated carrot, sweet red bell pepper, and zesty scallions, all brought together by a fragrant dressing of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, curry powder, and a hint of honey. Finished with fresh cilantro and optional chopped nuts for an extra layer of texture, this protein-packed dish is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Ready in just 30 minutes, this easy recipe is ideal as a refreshing vegetarian main or a colorful side dish. Enjoy it on its own, or elevate it by serving over crisp mixed greens for a satisfying meal full of exotic spice and wholesome goodness. Keywords: Curried Red Lentil Salad, vegetarian salad, healthy lentil recipes, quick side dish, protein-packed salad.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium, grated carrot
- 1 medium, diced red bell pepper
- 3 stalks, thinly sliced scallions
- 0.25 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1.5 teaspoons curry powder
- 0.5 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 cup chopped almonds or cashews (optional)
- 2 cups mixed greens (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the red lentils and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let the lentils cool completely.
While the lentils are cooling, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, curry powder, ground cumin, honey, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, grated carrot, diced red bell pepper, scallions, and chopped cilantro. If using, mix in the chopped almonds or cashews for added crunch.
Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
Serve the curried red lentil salad on its own or over a bed of mixed greens for additional freshness. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
976 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 58.8 g | 75% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.0 g | 40% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2437 mg | 106% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 84.7 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 35.0 g | 125% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.5 g | ||
| Protein | 37.1 g | 74% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 616 mg | 47% | |
| Iron | 18.8 mg | 104% | |
| Potassium | 2834 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
