Delicious Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette

Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette is a vibrant explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: tender lentils nestled among fresh spinach, all drizzled with a zesty lemon-tahini vinaigrette that brings everything together in perfect harmony. hearty vegan chili comforting lentil soup recipe This dish doesn’t just look good; it sings a delicious tune that beckons you to devour it! delicious white bean soup.

Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made this salad for my friends during a sunny picnic in the park. We had laughter, sunshine, and this delightful salad that had everyone asking for seconds. It’s ideal for spring gatherings or even as a light lunch at your desk—trust me, your coworkers will be envious!

Ingredients for Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette

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Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Lentils: Use green or brown lentils; they hold their shape well after cooking and add protein.
• Fresh Spinach: Opt for baby spinach for its tender leaves; it adds freshness and color to the salad.
• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems add sweetness and juiciness; halved, they brighten up the dish.
• Cucumber: Choose a crisp cucumber for crunch; peel if desired for a smoother texture.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a mild bite; soak them in water briefly if you prefer less pungency.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice delivers brightness; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.

For the Dressing:

• Tahini: Look for smooth tahini paste; it provides creaminess without dairy and pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it enhances the dressing’s depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette

For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan spiced salmon recipe.

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

Rinse one cup of lentils under cold water until they run clear. In a pot, combine the lentils with three cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

While the lentils cook, wash your spinach thoroughly and dry it using a salad spinner or paper towels. Next, chop your cherry tomatoes in half, slice the cucumber into half-moons, and thinly slice the red onion.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of tahini, two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. If it’s too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils with chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion. Toss gently to mix everything without bruising those delicate greens.

Step 5: Dress It Up

Drizzle your prepared lemon-tahini vinaigrette over your salad mixture. Toss lightly again so every morsel is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your stunning salad into serving bowls or plates. Garnish with additional lemon slices or toasted nuts if desired!

This Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette makes an excellent centerpiece whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying some well-deserved “me” time on the couch!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking lentils until tender while you wash and chop the spinach. Simultaneously, whisk together the lemon-tahini vinaigrette. Mix everything when the lentils cool for a delightful flavor blend.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap spinach for kale or add some cherry tomatoes for extra color. Craving protein? Toss in grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it heartier. The options are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best flavor, enjoy cold straight from the fridge; reheating may wilt the spinach and spoil that fresh crunch.

Cooking this salad brings back fond memories of summer picnics where friends gathered, sharing laughter over colorful plates of food and enjoying the zesty flavors together.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette?

To prepare a delicious Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette, you’ll need cooked lentils, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. For the vinaigrette, gather tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, water, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a flavorful and nutritious salad that is perfect as a main dish or a side.

How can I store my Lentil and Spinach Salad?

You can store your Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the vinaigrette separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. The salad will last up to three days when stored correctly. Enjoy it fresh for the best flavor.

Can I customize the Lentil and Spinach Salad?

Absolutely! You can customize your Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You may also include proteins such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition. Feel free to adjust the vinaigrette’s flavor by adding herbs or spices that you enjoy.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! The Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette not only stores well but also benefits from sitting overnight as flavors meld together. Prepare individual portions in containers along with the dressing on the side. This makes it easy to grab a healthy lunch throughout the week. For more inspiration, check out this healthy oat crepes recipe recipe.

Conclusion for Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette:

In summary, the Lentil and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Vinaigrette is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers versatility for customization. With simple ingredients like lentils, fresh greens, and a tangy dressing, this salad delivers both taste and health benefits. Whether enjoyed as a main course or side dish, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy preparing this vibrant salad that everyone will love!