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French Lentil Salad

prep time:15 minutes
cook time:20 minutes
Chill Time2 hours
total time:2 hours 35 minutes
This is a simple, healthy lentil salad that holds up well in the fridge. The most important step, regardless of which lentil you use, is to not overcook them. You want them tender, but to still hold their shape, not turn to mush.
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Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 1/2 cup uncooked brown or green lentils
  • 1 1/2 cups water or vegetable/chicken stock
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 small carrot finely diced
  • 1/2 stalk of celery finely diced
  • 1 small shallot finely diced
  • 1/4 cup walnuts or pecans finely chopped
  • 2 Tbsp fresh mint minced

For the Vinaigrette

  • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tsp red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Combine lentils, water, and bay leaf in a pot and bring to boil.
  • Reduce heat, simmer 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
  • Drain lentils and discard bay leaf.
  • Whisk olive oil, vinegar, and mustard in serving bowl.
  • Add cooked lentils, carrot, celery, shallot, nuts, and mint to dressing.
  • Toss to coat and season with salt and pepper.
  • Chill for 2 hours for best flavor.

Notes

Can be served immediately, but flavors improve with refrigeration.