French Lentil Salad

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers healthy fats while canola oil is more budget-friendly.

red wine vinegar

🥗Healthier: apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: white vinegar

Apple cider vinegar adds a fruity note, while white vinegar is cost-effective.

Dijon mustard

🥗Healthier: whole grain mustard

💰Cheaper: yellow mustard

Whole grain mustard has a richer flavor, while yellow mustard is more affordable.

cherry tomatoes

🥗Healthier: heirloom tomatoes

💰Cheaper: regular tomatoes

Heirloom tomatoes offer unique flavors, while regular tomatoes are less expensive.

Rinse lentils under cold water and drain.

Combine lentils, bay leaves, and water in a pot; bring to a boil over medium heat.

Reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes; drain and remove bay leaves.

Chop carrots, celery, red onion, and cucumber into small pieces.

In a large bowl, mix lentils with chopped vegetables and parsley.

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.

Pour dressing over the lentil salad and toss gently to combine.

Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Serve at room temperature or chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Spice Level:

Dietary