Best 11 Mediterranean Pasta And Lentil Salad Recipes

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If you're looking for a flavorful and nutritious salad that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Mediterranean, then look no further than this Mediterranean pasta and lentil salad. With its vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, protein-packed lentils, and a tangy dressing, this salad is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a hearty main course, this Mediterranean-inspired salad has something for everyone. So grab your apron and let's embark on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, all from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Let's cook with our recipes!

MEDITERRANEAN POWER LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Power Lentil Salad image

This healthy, satisfying Mediterranean lentil salad recipe with spinach, crunchy veggies, and a zippy lime dressing, is the ultimate power bowl! It's easy to make and even better the next day. Add pomegranate seeds (arils) when in season, or leave them out. Keep it vegan or add a sprinkle of creamy feta.

Provided by Suzy Karadsheh

Categories     Salad

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 cup dry green lentils or black lentils
Seeds of 1 pomegranate
Water
Kosher salt
1 small red onion (chopped)
3/4 English cucumber (small diced or chopped (about 2 1/2 cups))
2 to 3 cups baby spinach (or other leafy green of choice)
1 cup chopped fresh parsley
Crumbled feta cheese for garnish
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp honey
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground allspice
Salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Cook the lentils. In a saucepan, combine lentils with 3 cups of water and pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a boil. Cover, and lower heat to medium-low. Let simmer until the lentils are fully tender (anywhere from 25 to 45 minutes depending on the kind of lentils used). Be sure to check and add water if lentils seem too dry during the cooking process (they should absorb a lot of the water. Drain and set aside to cool.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils with chopped onions, cucumbers, baby spinach, parsley, and pomegranate seeds (arils.) Give everything a gentle toss.
  • Make the dressing. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the lime dressing ingredients. Pour the dressing over the lentil salad and toss to combine. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese to finish.
  • Allow a few minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 127.6 kcal, Sodium 15.3 mg, SaturatedFat 1.7 g, Carbohydrate 5 g, Fiber 0.8 g, Protein 0.9 g, ServingSize 1 serving

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Lentil Salad image

This is a delicious lentil salad, that keeps very well in the refrigerator.

Provided by Candice

Categories     Salad     Vegetable Salad Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup dry brown lentils
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup red onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
½ teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup diced celery
¼ cup chopped parsley
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ cup olive oil

Steps:

  • In a saucepan combine lentils, carrots, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme. Add enough water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
  • Drain lentils and vegetables and remove bay leaf. Add olive oil, lemon juice, celery, parsley, salt and pepper. Toss to mix and serve at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 147.4 calories, Carbohydrate 16.2 g, Fat 7.1 g, Fiber 5.8 g, Protein 6 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 452.8 mg, Sugar 3 g

MEDITERRANEAN PASTA SALAD



Mediterranean Pasta Salad image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     side-dish

Time 31m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

Kosher salt
1 pound tricolor pasta, such as bow tie or fusilli
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 to 3 teaspoons dijon mustard
Freshly ground pepper
2/3 to 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/3 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup fresh basil, julienned
1/4 cup diced onion
2 large pickled pepperoncini peppers, diced
3 tablespoons halved black olives
2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
1 1/2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1 1/2 tablespoons grated romano cheese

Steps:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente; drain, then rinse with cold water to cool.
  • Meanwhile, make the vinaigrette: Whisk the vinegar, mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in enough of the oil to make a smooth dressing; season with salt and pepper.
  • Combine the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, onion, pepperoncini, olives and oregano in a bowl. Add the cooked pasta, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Add the vinaigrette and both cheeses and toss. Chill until ready to serve.

MEDITERRANEAN STYLE ROASTED RED PEPPER AND LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Style Roasted Red Pepper and Lentil Salad image

A perfect summer salad to share with friends and family over a picnic or for dinner. This whole food lentil salad recipe is super easy to make, plus it's vegan-friendly!

Provided by Pooja Mottl

Categories     Salad     Beans     Lentil Salad Recipes

Time 1h30m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 18

1 ½ large red bell peppers, halved and seeded
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 cup French green lentils
3 cups cold water
1 pinch sea salt
1 small onion, finely diced
2 stalks celery, finely diced
2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
½ cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 small shallots, coarsely chopped
½ teaspoon sea salt
5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 ½ tablespoons white wine vinegar
1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
  • Toss red pepper halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and roast until the peppers are very soft and crisp at the edges, about 20 minutes. Allow peppers to cool, then dice into 1/4-inch cubes. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  • Combine lentils and cold water in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, add a pinch of salt, and simmer, covered, until the lentils are just tender to the bite, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat, drain, and cool. Transfer cooled lentils to the mixing bowl.
  • Gently mix in the onion, celery, carrots, and parsley. Add 1/2 teaspoon sea salt and freshly ground pepper.
  • Combine the Dijon mustard, chopped shallots, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and balsamic vinegar in a blender. Blend on High for 10 seconds. Gradually add olive oil and blend again until the dressing is fully emulsified and smooth. Pour 1/2 cup dressing over lentils and stir gently with a wooden spoon. Taste the salad and add remaining dressing if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 479.5 calories, Carbohydrate 37.5 g, Fat 32.2 g, Fiber 12.1 g, Protein 12 g, SaturatedFat 4.5 g, Sodium 673 mg, Sugar 8.9 g

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Lentil Salad image

A light refreshing dressing lends a lemony lift to this Mediterranean mix of lentils, tomatoes, olives and feta cheese. "This good-for-you side taste terrific and goes together in a jiffy," says Melissa Nichols of Shorewood, Minnesota. "My family loves it served with homemade bread."

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 14

5 cups water
1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
1/4 cup lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1-1/2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (about 4 medium)
3 celery ribs, chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup sliced ripe olives
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Steps:

  • In a saucepan, bring water and lentils to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Rinse under cold water; drain. Place in a large bowl to cool. , Meanwhile, in a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the lemon juice, oil, garlic, sugar, thyme, salt and pepper; shake well. Add tomatoes, celery, cheese and olives to lentils; toss to combine. , Add dressing and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle with parsley.

Nutrition Facts :

MEDITERRANEAN COUSCOUS AND LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Couscous and Lentil Salad image

Categories     Salad     Bean     Pasta     Side     Quick & Easy     Fall     Gourmet

Yield Serves 6

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 cup lentilles du Puy* (French green lentils) or brown lentils
3 tablespoons white-wine vinegar
1 1/4 cups water
1 cup couscous
1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup olive oil (preferably extra-virgin)
1 large garlic clove, minced and mashed to a paste with 1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
1 bunch arugula, stems discarded and leaves washed well, spun dry, and chopped
2 cups vine-ripened cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 pound feta, crumbled (about 1 cup)
*available at specialty foods shops and some supermarkets

Steps:

  • In a small saucepan simmer lentils in water to cover by 2 inches until tender but not falling apart, 15 to 20 minutes, and drain well. Transfer hot lentils to a bowl and stir in 1 tablespoon vinegar and salt and pepper to taste. Cool lentils completely, stirring occasionally.
  • In a saucepan bring water to a boil and add couscous and salt. Remove pan from heat and let couscous stand, covered, 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork and transfer to a large bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon oil and cool completely, stirring occasionally.
  • In a small bowl whisk together garlic paste, remaining 2 tablespoons vinegar, remaining 3 tablespoons oil, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir lentils and dressing into couscous. Chill salad, covered, at least 3 hours and up to 24.
  • Just before serving, stir in remaining ingredients and season with salt and pepper.

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD RECIPE BY TASTY



Mediterranean Lentil Salad Recipe by Tasty image

Here's what you need: olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, pepper, salt, yellow bell pepper, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomato, lentils, fresh parsley

Provided by Merle O'Neal

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 1 serving

Number Of Ingredients 12

¼ cup olive oil
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
½ cup chickpeas
½ cup cucumber, chopped
½ cup cherry tomato, halved
½ cup lentils, cooked
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Steps:

  • In a large mason jar, add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, pepper, and salt. Stir or swirl to combine.
  • Add the bell pepper, chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, lentils, and parsley and screw on the lid.
  • Store in the refrigerator until ready to eat, up to 5 days
  • Give the mason jar a good shake to mix and use a fork or spoon to stir as needed.
  • Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts : Calories 938 calories, Carbohydrate 86 grams, Fat 56 grams, Fiber 17 grams, Protein 29 grams, Sugar 13 grams

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Lentil Salad image

I love lentils, and this simple recipe makes these nutritious legumes into a quick and tasty meal. Serve on a bed of lettuce, topped with feta cheese and olives and surrounded by tomato wedges and cucumber slices. From "Moosewood Restaurant Cooks at Home: Fast and Easy Recipes for Any Day" by The Moosewood Collective

Provided by Veggie Girl NYC

Categories     Lentil

Time 50m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 15

1 cup lentils
4 cups water
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon thyme
2 garlic cloves, peeled
1/3 cup sun-dried tomato, not packed in oil
boiling water
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, minced
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
salt & freshly ground black pepper

Steps:

  • Rinse the lentils. In a medium saucepan, bring the lentils, 4 c water, bay leaves, thyme, and garlic to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
  • While the lentils are simmering, cover the sun-dried tomatoes with boiling water in a heatproof bowl and set aside. Combine the celery, peppers, onions, and parsley in a large bowl. In a separate small (non-metallic) bowl, whisk the dressing ingredients until smooth. When the sun-dried tomatoes have softened, drain them and mince. Add to the chopped vegetables.
  • Drain the lentils and discard the bay leaves. Let cool, then remove the garlic, mash it, and mix it back into the lentils. Toss the lentils with the vegetables and dressing, and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
  • Serve immediately, or cover and chill to serve later.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 248.2, Fat 18.6, SaturatedFat 2.6, Sodium 161, Carbohydrate 15.9, Fiber 5.6, Sugar 4, Protein 5.9

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD WITH LEMON-THYME VINAIGRETTE



Mediterranean Lentil Salad With Lemon-Thyme Vinaigrette image

Provided by Molly O'Neill

Categories     dinner, easy, lunch, salads and dressings, side dish

Time 30m

Yield Four servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

1 cup lentils
5 cups water
1 tomato, cored and chopped
1/2 cup oil-cured black olives, pitted and coarsely chopped
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 stalks celery, trimmed, peeled and thinly sliced
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 large cloves garlic, peeled and minced
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste

Steps:

  • To make the salad, combine the lentils and water in a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until tender but not mushy, about 20 minutes. Drain, place in a large bowl and let cool. Toss the tomato, olives, feta and celery with the lentils.
  • To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic and thyme in a medium bowl. Slowly whisk in the olive oil. Whisk in the salt and pepper. Toss the vinaigrette with the salad and season to taste. Divide among 4 plates, garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 338, UnsaturatedFat 10 grams, Carbohydrate 38 grams, Fat 15 grams, Fiber 7 grams, Protein 16 grams, SaturatedFat 4 grams, Sodium 1067 milligrams, Sugar 3 grams

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Lentil Salad image

Here's a summery lentil salad topped with tomatoes, roasted peppers and feta, garnished with hard-cooked eggs, anchovy fillets and good canned tuna. Studded with olives and sprinkled with oregano, it's a sort-of niçoise salad by way of Greece, an easy main course suitable for a picnic or a no-fuss make-ahead supper.

Provided by David Tanis

Categories     dinner, weekday, salads and dressings, vegetables, main course

Time 1h

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 21

1 1/2 cups small brown or green lentils, such as Castelluccio or Le Puy
1 bay leaf
A few thyme sprigs, tied in a bundle
Salt and pepper
1 1/2 pounds tiny new potatoes
12 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved (about 3 cups)
1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced and soaked in ice water
2 red bell peppers, roasted, skin removed and cut into long, wide strips
8 anchovy fillets (optional)
8 ounces good-quality canned tuna, drained, in large chunks (optional)
4 hard-cooked eggs (9 minutes), halved or quartered
2 tablespoons roughly chopped mint
3 tablespoons roughly chopped parsley
Small handful of basil leaves, for garnish
1 cup good-quality black olives, such as niçoise, Kalamata or Moroccan
4 ounces feta, cut in 1/2-inch slices
3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar, plus more to taste
2 garlic cloves, grated or smashed to a paste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more to taste
1 teaspoon crumbled oregano, plus a little more for sprinkling

Steps:

  • Cook the lentils: Rinse and put in a medium saucepan. Cover with 4 cups water and add bay leaf, thyme sprig and a large pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat and simmer gently with lid ajar for 20 to 25 minutes, until lentils are tender. Set pot aside and let cool to room temperature.
  • Put the potatoes in another saucepan, cover with water and add a heaping teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to brisk simmer. Cook about 15 minutes, until cooked through when probed with a paring knife. Drain and set aside. (If desired, use a paring knife to remove skins from potatoes while still warm.) Cut in halves or quarters.
  • While lentils cook, make the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, stir together vinegar and garlic. Season with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk in the oil. Taste and adjust. Stir in oregano.
  • Put the cherry tomatoes in a bowl. Drain onion slices, and add to the tomatoes along with roasted pepper strips. Season with salt, then add half the vinaigrette (well whisked). Toss to coat.
  • To assemble salad, drain lentils and transfer to a large low, wide bowl or platter and let cool for 10 minutes. Add remaining vinaigrette, sprinkle with a little salt and toss gently. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Top lentils with tomato-onion-pepper mixture. Arrange anchovy fillets, tuna (if using) and eggs on top. Sprinkle with mint and parsley. Arrange halved or quartered potatoes around the perimeter. Garnish with basil leaves, olives and feta. Sprinkle a pinch of oregano over the salad.

MEDITERRANEAN LENTIL SALAD



Mediterranean Lentil Salad image

Make and share this Mediterranean Lentil Salad recipe from Food.com.

Provided by ratherbeswimmin

Categories     Lunch/Snacks

Time 50m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 16

1 cup brown lentils or 1 cup green lentil
4 cups water
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup sun-dried tomato (not packed in oil)
boiling water
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup minced red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon ground fennel
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
salt and pepper

Steps:

  • Rinse the lentils thoroughly.
  • Add lentils, water, bay leaves, thyme, and garlic to a medium saucepan; bring the mixture to boil.
  • Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until lentils are tender, stirring frequently.
  • In a small bowl, add the sun-dried tomatoes and boiling water to cover; set aside.
  • In a large bowl, add the celery, bell peppers, onions, and parsley.
  • In another smaller bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
  • When the sun-dried tomatoes are softened, drain them, mince them and add to the vegetables.
  • Drain the lentils, discarding the bay leaves.
  • Add the lentils and dressing to the vegetables; toss to coat.
  • Serve immediately or cover, chill and serve later.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 362, Fat 18.9, SaturatedFat 2.6, Sodium 135.9, Carbohydrate 35.2, Fiber 16.6, Sugar 4.2, Protein 13.9

Tips:

  • Prep your ingredients beforehand: To ensure a quick and seamless cooking process, measure and chop all the required ingredients before starting. Consider using a food processor to save time on chopping.
  • Cook the pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta retains a slight bite and doesn't become overcooked and mushy. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, minus 1-2 minutes.
  • Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil: This is a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine and adds a delicious flavor to the salad. Look for a flavorful and fruity extra virgin olive oil.
  • Don't overcook the lentils: Lentils are delicate and can become mushy if overcooked. Cook them according to the package instructions or until they are tender but still hold their shape.
  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, mint, cilantro, and basil add a vibrant and aromatic touch to the salad. If possible, use freshly picked herbs for the best flavor.
  • Add vegetables for extra nutrition: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the salad. Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, and artichoke hearts are all excellent options.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Pasta and Lentil Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. It's packed with healthy ingredients like lentils, pasta, vegetables, and herbs. The bright and tangy dressing adds a refreshing touch, making this salad perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish. Feel free to customize it with your preferred vegetables, herbs, or even different types of lentils. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious salad as part of a balanced diet!

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