Earthy French Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts

Name: Earthy French Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Salad
Ingredients: 1 cup French green lentils; 3 cups water; 1 bay leaf; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup goat cheese; 1/2 cup walnuts; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 1 small red onion

Delight in the flavors of rustic French cuisine with this wholesome salad.

This vibrant salad combines earthy lentils, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts with a tangy dressing to create a dish that's as delicious as it is nourishing.

45 min
4
Easy

Ingredients

For the Lentil Salad

1 cup French green lentils

rinsed

3 cups water

1 bay leaf

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Toppings

1/2 cup goat cheese

crumbled

1/2 cup walnuts

lightly toasted and chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley

chopped

For the Assembly

2 cups mixed salad greens

1 small red onion

thinly sliced

Preparation

Preparing the Lentils

Combine Lentils and Bay Leaf

Combine lentils, water, and bay leaf in a medium saucepan.

Bring to a Boil

Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.

Cook and Drain

Cook for 20-25 minutes until tender, then drain and discard bay leaf.

Do not overcook the lentils; they should be tender but not mushy.

Making the Dressing

Whisk Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.

Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Rest Dressing

Set aside until ready to use.

This dressing can be made a day ahead to enhance its flavor.

Cooking Process

Combine Lentils and Dressing

Mix cooked lentils with dressing in a large bowl.

Toss Salad

Add salad greens and red onion to the lentils and toss well.

Add Toppings

Top with goat cheese, walnuts, and parsley before serving.

Plating & Serving