Description
A hearty salad combining earthy lentils and sweet, caramelized roasted vegetables, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (for dressing)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for dressing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the chopped bell peppers, carrots, and red onion in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Spread the vegetable mixture on the baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
- While the vegetables roast, combine the rinsed lentils, 3 cups of water or vegetable broth, and bay leaf in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- After 15 minutes, add whole cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and additional salt and pepper until emulsified.
- Once lentils are tender, drain excess water and discard the bay leaf.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted veggies, lentils, and chopped parsley. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep dressing separate if freezing.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean