Refreshing Salade de Lentilles Froide for Summer Bliss

Name: Refreshing Salade de Lentilles Froide
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; Salt & pepper to taste

Published: May 22, 2025

by Grace

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This refreshing salade de lentilles froide is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
The flavor profile is a beautiful balance of savory and tangy, making it irresistible.
With its vibrant colors and textures, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
It’s versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish, adapting seamlessly to any meal.

Ingredients for refreshing salade de lentilles froide

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

Green or Brown Lentils: These legumes are packed with protein and fiber; choose fresh ones for the best texture.
Cucumber: A crisp cucumber adds freshness; opt for English cucumbers if possible as they are less watery.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy cherry tomatoes bring vibrant color and sweetness; slice them in half for easy eating.
Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion provides a nice crunch; soak them in cold water first to mellow their flavor.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds brightness and freshness; use flat-leaf parsley for more flavor.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the dressing’s flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
Balsamic Vinegar: This sweet-tart vinegar elevates the dressing; feel free to experiment with flavored varieties.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in your salad; adjust according to taste.

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

Recipe preparation

How to Make refreshing salade de lentilles froide

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

Start by rinsing one cup of green or brown lentils under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils with three cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender but not mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the lentils are cooking, dice your cucumber and halve those juicy cherry tomatoes. Thinly slice some red onion (don’t forget that cold-water soak) and chop fresh parsley for garnish.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of olive oil with two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You’ll want this dressing zingy but not overpowering!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your lentils have cooked and cooled slightly (you don’t want them steaming hot), transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Toss in all your prepared vegetables along with that delicious dressing.

Step 5: Chill Out

Let your salad sit in the fridge for at least thirty minutes before serving. This allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Transfer your refreshed salade de lentilles froide onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, then dig in!

This vibrant salad is perfect for picnics or as part of a light lunch during warm weather days. Enjoy each tasty bite filled with freshness!

You Must Know

This salade de lentilles is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures.
It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
Serve it as a light lunch or a side at your next gathering, and watch the compliments roll in!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water, then simmer them in a pot with ample water until tender. While they cook, chop your veggies and whisk together the dressing for maximum efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have lurking in your fridge. Add-ins like feta cheese or avocado can elevate this salad even further!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat—just grab a fork!

Chef's Helpful Tips

To get the most flavor from your refreshing salade de lentilles froide, make sure to season the lentils while they cook.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or mint for brightness.
Finally, let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal taste!

Personal anecdote

I remember making this refreshing salade de lentilles froide for a picnic last summer. Everyone raved about it, and my cousin even asked for the recipe—now that’s success!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for refreshing salade de lentilles froide?

To prepare a refreshing salade de lentilles froide, you’ll need cooked green or brown lentils, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Additionally, a dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors. Feel free to add extras like feta cheese or avocado for a richer taste. This salad not only brings together nutritious ingredients but also provides a vibrant visual appeal. For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta recipe.

How do I prepare lentils for this cold salad?

Start by rinsing your lentils under cold water to remove any debris. Then, cook them in boiling water for about 20-30 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and let them cool completely before mixing with your other salad ingredients. Properly cooked lentils are crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your refreshing salade de lentilles froide.

Can I make refreshing salade de lentilles froide in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, making this salad in advance can enhance its flavors as the ingredients meld together over time. Prepare the salad up to two days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

What variations can I try with refreshing salade de lentilles froide?

You can customize your refreshing salade de lentilles froide with various ingredients according to your taste preferences. Consider adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor. You can also introduce proteins such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition. Experimenting with different herbs like mint or cilantro can also give your salad a unique twist. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Conclusion for refreshing salade de lentilles froide :

In summary, a refreshing salade de lentilles froide is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients. By using fresh ingredients and customizing it according to your palate, you create a delightful dish suitable for any occasion. This salad is perfect for meal prep or as a side dish at gatherings. Enjoy this vibrant creation that combines health benefits with delicious flavors!

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📖 Recipe Card