I love making this Mediterranean Lentil Salad when I want something fresh, hearty, and nourishing that still feels light. It’s packed with bright flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a simple dressing that brings everything together beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s easy, filling, and perfect for make-ahead meals. I enjoy how the earthy lentils pair with crisp vegetables and tangy Mediterranean flavors. It works well as a main dish or a flavorful side.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1½ cups cooked green or brown lentils
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
For the dressing
3 tablespoons olive oil
1½ tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
I start by adding the cooked lentils to a large bowl. I add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, feta cheese, and olives, then gently toss everything together.
In a small bowl, I whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. I pour the dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is evenly coated.
I let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: about 15 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes in different colors for extra crunch and color. When I want more protein, I mix in chickpeas or grilled chicken. I also enjoy swapping feta for dairy-free cheese when needed.
Storage/Reheating
I store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I enjoy it cold straight from the fridge and don’t reheat it.
FAQs
Can I use canned lentils?
I often use canned lentils, rinsed and drained well, to save time.
Is this salad vegan?
I make it vegan by leaving out the feta cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
I find it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld.
What type of lentils work best?
I prefer green or brown lentils because they hold their shape well.
Can I serve this as a main dish?
I enjoy it as a main for a light meal or as a side with grilled proteins.
Conclusion
I keep making this Mediterranean Lentil Salad because it’s fresh, satisfying, and full of flavor. It’s a simple recipe that delivers wholesome ingredients and vibrant Mediterranean taste in every bite.
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This Mediterranean Lentil Salad is a fresh, hearty, and vibrant dish made with lentils, crisp vegetables, feta, and a zesty lemon-oregano dressing. It’s perfect as a main or side and ideal for meal prep or light lunches.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1½ cups cooked green or brown lentils
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- For the dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. Toss gently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Notes
- Add diced bell peppers or colorful cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color.
- Use chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein.
- Swap feta for a plant-based cheese for a vegan version.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Use canned lentils for convenience—just rinse and drain well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
