Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your understanding of salads! This French Lentil Salad is not just another side dish – it's a vibrant, flavor-packed experience that combines the earthy richness of French lentils with the crisp freshness of fennel and celery, all brought together with a zesty dressing and creamy feta cheese. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup French lentils
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the French lentils thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris.
- In a medium saucepan, add the lentils and cover with water by about 2 inches. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the lentils uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender but still maintain their shape. Be careful not to overcook.
- While lentils are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Trim the fennel bulb, removing the tough outer layer and stalks. Slice the bulb thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Wash and dice the celery stalks into small, uniform pieces.
- Once lentils are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool for 10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, sliced fennel, and diced celery.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled. The salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Lentil Cooking Secrets: Always rinse your French lentils thoroughly and avoid overcooking. They should be tender but still maintain their shape and have a slight bite.
- Vegetable Prep Matters: Use a sharp knife or mandoline for thinly slicing fennel to ensure uniform, delicate pieces that blend seamlessly with the lentils.
- Dressing Technique: Whisk the olive oil and red wine vinegar thoroughly to create a well-emulsified dressing that coats every ingredient perfectly.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. Prepare it in advance for an easy, delicious meal prep option.
- Serving Suggestions: For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad at room temperature or slightly chilled. The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or picnics.
- Customization Tip: Feel free to add additional herbs like fresh mint or swap feta for goat cheese to make the recipe your own.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
