Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Feta and Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing and protein-packed salad made with tender lentils, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cubes, tossed in a zesty lemon-herb dressing. This vibrant bowl is a perfect light lunch or side dish that celebrates Mediterranean simplicity.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- In a medium pot, combine lentils, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled lentils, cherry tomatoes, feta cubes, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and black pepper.
- Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine without breaking the feta.
- Garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked lentils to save time.
- Try adding diced cucumber or red onion for extra crunch.
- For a vegan version, substitute feta with plant-based cheese or omit it altogether.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: mediterranean lentil salad, feta salad, cherry tomato salad, healthy lunch, vegetarian salad