Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese Recipe
Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese is an Indian-inspired, healthy side dish that brings a delightful combination of earthy red lentils and tangy goat cheese, making it an incredibly flavorful option for any meal. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this salad is the perfect balance of texture and taste. Infused with aromatic bay leaves and complemented by the sharpness of mustard sauce, this dish is truly unique. The addition of fresh vegetables like spinach, onions, and tomatoes enhances both the flavor and nutritional value. It’s easy to make, quick to prepare, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser on days when you crave something light yet fulfilling.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masoor Dal (Whole) | 1 cup (dried) |
| Onion | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Tomatoes | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Spinach | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Goat Cheese | 1/4 cup, crumbled |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Vinegar | 1 teaspoon |
| Kasundi Mustard Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, roughly chopped |
| Black Pepper Powder | 2 teaspoons, freshly crushed |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lentils:
- Begin by rinsing the Masoor Dal (red lentils) thoroughly, washing them two to three times to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, strain the water.
- In a pressure cooker, add the washed lentils and the required amount of water. Toss in a bay leaf for added flavor. Close the lid and cook under pressure until the lentils become tender yet retain their shape. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the lentils are cooking, take the time to chop the onion, tomatoes, and spinach. Keep them aside.
-
Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, kasundi mustard sauce, chopped garlic, freshly ground black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Once the lentils are cooked, strain any excess water and set them aside to cool slightly. Let them cool until they’re warm to the touch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped vegetables, and the prepared dressing. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the lentils are well-coated with the dressing.
-
Finish the Salad:
- Just before serving, crumble the goat cheese over the salad and toss it lightly to incorporate.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve this Warm Red Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese as a healthy and delicious standalone dish or pair it with a side like Smoked Vegetarian Spanish Rice for a complete meal.
This salad is not only a great source of protein and vitamins, but it also offers the rich and creamy tang of goat cheese, making it a unique and satisfying option for any occasion. Perfect for a light dinner or as a side dish, this recipe is bound to become a favorite!
Pro Tips:
- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this salad based on what you have available—cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots would all work wonderfully.
- For added crunch, you can top this salad with roasted seeds or nuts such as pumpkin seeds or almonds.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the kasundi mustard sauce with a more subtle Dijon mustard.
