WARM LENTIL AND QUINOA SALAD
Warm Lentil And Quinoa Salad is a hearty, protein-packed dish that combines the nutty flavour of quinoa with the earthy richness of lentils. This simple yet nourishing salad is dressed with olive oil, salt and lemon juice, enhancing the taste with a zesty freshness. It’s rich in plant-based protein, fibre and essential vitamins, making it a satisfying and balanced meal option. This dish is naturally gluten-free, vegan and packed with antioxidants, making it perfect for those following a healthy lifestyle. Quick to prepare and easy to customise, this warm salad is ideal for a light lunch, a nutritious side dish or a satisfying dinner. The combination of lentils and quinoa creates a wholesome texture that pairs well with various vegetables, nuts and fresh herbs. Whether served on its own or alongside other dishes, this Warm Lentil And Quinoa Salad is delicious and energising.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Salad, Main Course, Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer, One-Pot Wonders
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Fall, Winter, Casual Dinner, Family Gathering, Back to School, Wellness-Focused Meals
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Healthy, High Fibre, Low Fat, Quick & Easy, Paleo, Whole30
DISH TYPE
Salad
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for a Warm Lentil And Quinoa Salad:
- ¼ cup cooked lentils
- ¼ cup cooked quinoa
- ½ teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 108 kcal
- Protein: 4.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 16.8 g
- Sugars: 0.6 g
- Fibre: 3.5 g
- Fat: 3.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Sodium: 196 mg
- Potassium: 220 mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cook lentils and quinoa separately according to package instructions if they have not already been prepared.
- Heat The Lentils And Quinoa: In a small pan, warm the cooked lentils and quinoa over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Dress The Salad: Transfer the lentils and quinoa to a bowl and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Season To Taste: Sprinkle with salt and mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavours.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy as it is or with additional toppings of your choice.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
3 minutes
TIPS
- Better Texture: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness.
- Extra Flavour: Toast quinoa in a dry pan before cooking for a nuttier taste.
- Customise Your Dressing: Add a dash of balsamic vinegar or Dijon mustard for more depth.
- Protein Boost: Toss in chickpeas, tofu or nuts for added protein.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled tofu for a fuller meal.
VARIATIONS
- Mediterranean Style: Add chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes and feta cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or cumin for added warmth.
- Herbal Freshness: Garnish with fresh parsley, coriander or mint.
- Crunchy Addition: Toss in toasted almonds, sunflower seeds or pine nuts.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended because quinoa may lose texture upon thawing.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.