Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese
This Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese is a delightful combination of hearty lentils, fresh vegetables, and creamy goat cheese, perfect for those looking for a healthy and satisfying side dish. The dish is quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight meals or a special gathering. The dressing, a blend of extra virgin olive oil, tangy vinegar, and zesty Kasundi mustard sauce, adds a rich, flavorful finish to the warm lentils. Whether served on its own or paired with a main dish like Smoked Vegetarian Spanish Rice, this salad is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masoor Dal (Whole) – dried | 1 cup |
| Onion – chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Tomatoes – chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Spinach – chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Goat Cheese – crumbled | 1/4 cup |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Kasundi Mustard Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic – roughly chopped | 2 cloves |
| Black Pepper Powder – freshly crushed | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Protein | ~9g |
| Fat | ~12g |
| Carbohydrates | ~20g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~150mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
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Wash and Prepare the Lentils:
Begin by placing the Masoor Dal (red lentils) in a bowl. Rinse the lentils under cold water, washing them thoroughly to remove any debris. Strain the water and set the lentils aside. -
-
Cook the Lentils:
In a pressure cooker, add the washed lentils along with 1 bay leaf and the appropriate amount of water. Close the lid and cook on medium heat for about 3โ4 whistles, or until the lentils are tender but still retain their shape. Once cooked, allow the pressure to release naturally. Drain any excess water and set the lentils aside to cool slightly. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the lentils are cooking, chop the onion, tomatoes, and spinach. Set them aside in separate bowls. -
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, Kasundi mustard sauce, garlic, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until well combined, creating a flavorful dressing for the salad. -
Combine the Salad:
Once the lentils have cooled down slightly, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped vegetables and pour over the dressing. Toss gently to combine everything evenly, making sure the lentils are well-coated with the dressing. -
Add Goat Cheese:
Just before serving, crumble the goat cheese over the top of the salad. Give it a light toss to incorporate the cheese, but be careful not to overmix, so the cheese retains its creamy texture. -
Serve:
Serve the Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese while still slightly warm. This dish is perfect as a main course for a light and nutritious meal or as a side to accompany dishes like Smoked Vegetarian Spanish Rice.
Cooking Tips
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Kasundi Mustard Sauce: This Indian mustard sauce adds a sharp, spicy kick to the salad. If you’re unable to find Kasundi mustard sauce, you can substitute with regular mustard or a combination of Dijon mustard and a little bit of vinegar to mimic the tangy, spicy flavor.
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Lentil Texture: When cooking lentils, make sure they are soft enough to be tender but firm enough to maintain their shape. Overcooking may cause them to become mushy, which is less ideal for this salad.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. You could add bell peppers, cucumber, or even roasted sweet potatoes to make this dish your own.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the lentils and dressing in advance. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together and top with goat cheese. This can save time during busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese is a well-balanced dish that combines protein-rich lentils, nutrient-packed vegetables, and the creamy richness of goat cheese. The combination of texturesโcrunchy vegetables, tender lentils, and the smooth cheeseโmakes each bite a delightful experience. The dressing ties it all together with its bold flavors, making it the perfect side dish for any occasion.
Enjoy this warm and comforting salad as a healthy meal on its own or paired with a hearty main course.
