Lentil Salad Italiano Recipe 🥗
Overview:
Lentil Salad Italiano is a delightful dish originating from the “Lean, Luscious, and Meatless” Cookbook, offering a fusion of Mediterranean flavors and wholesome ingredients. This recipe has been tweaked with personal touches, like the addition of aromatic rosemary and thyme, along with the substitution of olive oil for a richer taste. Perfect for a satisfying meal or as a part of a vibrant salad bar spread, this dish promises both nutrition and flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 88.8 per serving
- Fat Content: 4.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 12.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 9.1g
- Fiber Content: 3.2g
- Sugar Content: 1.7g
- Protein Content: 3.3g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 cup | Lentils |
| 3 cups | Water |
| 1 | Bay leaf |
| 2 tbsp | Wine vinegar |
| 3 | Onion |
| 1/2 | Carrot |
| 1/2 can | Pimientos |
| 1 tsp | Dried basil |
| 1 tsp | Garlic powder |
| – | Olive oil |
| – | Rosemary (optional) |
| – | Thyme (optional) |
Instructions:
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Prepare Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine lentils, water, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
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Simmer Lentils: Reduce the heat to low and let the lentils simmer, covered, for approximately 25 minutes or until they are just beginning to soften.
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Drain and Season: Once cooked, drain the lentils and remove the bay leaf. Transfer them to a mixing bowl.
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Add Flavor: To the lentils, add wine vinegar, finely chopped onions, diced carrots, sliced pimientos, dried basil, and garlic powder. Optionally, include chopped rosemary and thyme for added depth of flavor.
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Mix Well: Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
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Chill: For optimal taste, refrigerate the lentil salad for several hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a final stir before serving. Enjoy this wholesome Lentil Salad Italiano as a standalone dish or as a delightful accompaniment to a green salad and a crusty loaf of bread.
Serving Suggestions:
- Meal: Serve as a hearty main course alongside a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
- Salad Bar: Offer as a nutritious option on a salad bar spread, allowing guests to customize their plates with various toppings and dressings.
- Brunch: Include this lentil salad as part of a brunch buffet, complementing other dishes like quiches, pastries, and fresh fruits.
- Pita Pocket: For a portable option, fill pita pockets with this flavorful lentil salad, adding a dash of hot sauce or creamy tahini for extra zest.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better when prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to develop further.
- Customize: Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for a quick and convenient meal option.
Conclusion:
Lentil Salad Italiano is a versatile dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, making it an ideal addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying lunch or incorporated into a larger meal spread, this flavorful salad is sure to please even the most discerning palates. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in the wholesome goodness of this Italian-inspired lentil creation! 🌿🍴
