Lentil Cucumber Salad is a delightful, refreshing dish that has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the warmer months. Each bite of this vibrant salad combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the crispness of fresh cucumber, making it not only satisfying but also a nutritious choice. Packed with protein-rich lentils and bursting with flavor from a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a dish you can feel good about enjoying. Let’s dive into the details of this versatile recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Cucumber Salad

This Lentil Cucumber Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of freshness and health. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

It’s a Healthy Lentil Cucumber Salad that’s low in calories yet high in nutrients.
Rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner.
Perfect for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Quick to prepare, taking only about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile and customizable; feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins.
Contains fresh herbs, adding a burst of flavor and nutrition.
This recipe is ideal for those following a Vegan Lentil Cucumber Salad or Mediterranean diet.
Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or a side, complementing various meals.

Ingredients for Lentil Cucumber Salad

Gather these items:

Dry Green or Brown Lentils: 1 cup
Water or Veggie Broth: 3 cups
Cucumber: 1 large, diced
Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
Fresh Parsley: 1/2 cup, chopped
Fresh Mint or Dill (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
Lemon Juice: 2–3 tablespoons
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste

How to Make Lentil Cucumber Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook lentils in water or broth for 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and cool.
Step 2: Dice cucumber, chop herbs, and finely dice red onion.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine lentils, cucumber, onion, and herbs.
Step 5: Pour in dressing and toss gently. Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving.

Lentil Cucumber Salad: 5 Refreshing Reasons to Enjoy - Lentil Cucumber Salad - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Lentil Cucumber Salad

Keep these in mind:

Make sure not to overcook the lentils; they should be tender but firm.
Let the salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to meld.
For a creamier texture, add Cucumber Lentil Salad with Feta for richness.
This dish is best served chilled, making it perfect for hot summer days.

Best Ways to Serve Lentil Cucumber Salad

This versatile salad can be served in various ways:

As a light lunch paired with whole-grain bread.
As a refreshing side for grilled meats or fish, making it the perfect Cucumber Salad with Lentils and Dressing.
Top with avocado for a Lentil Cucumber Salad with Avocado Dressing twist.

How to Store and Reheat Lentil Cucumber Salad

To keep your Lentil Cucumber Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to 4-5 days, making it a great choice for Lentil Cucumber Salad for Meal Prep. If you need to reheat, serve it at room temperature, as the flavors are best enjoyed cold.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lentil Cucumber Salad

What is Lentil Cucumber Salad?

This salad is a mix of cooked lentils, diced cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. It’s both refreshing and nutritious, perfect for any meal.

Can I make Lentil Cucumber Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to develop further, making it taste even better.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lentil Cucumber Salad?

To avoid mushy lentils, cook them just until tender. Also, ensure to chop your vegetables uniformly for a more appealing presentation and balanced flavor in every bite.

Variations of Lentil Cucumber Salad You Can Try

Enhance your salad experience with these variations:

Add crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables for a Lentil Salad with Fresh Vegetables.
For a gluten-free option, enjoy it as is or with gluten-free grains.
Experiment with different dressings for unique flavors, such as tahini or balsamic.

Lentil Cucumber Salad: 5 Refreshing Reasons to Enjoy - Lentil Cucumber Salad - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Lentil Soup or try our Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. You can also explore Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta for a delightful dinner option.

Lentil Cucumber Salad: 5 Refreshing Reasons to Enjoy

Author: emily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor, this Lentil Cucumber Salad is the perfect light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients

Dry Green or Brown Lentils: 1 cup
Water or Veggie Broth: 3 cups
Cucumber: 1 large, diced
Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
Fresh Parsley: 1/2 cup, chopped
Fresh Mint or Dill (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons
Lemon Juice: 2–3 tablespoons
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions

Cook lentils in water or broth for 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and cool.
Dice cucumber, chop herbs, and finely dice red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine lentils, cucumber, onion, and herbs.
Pour in dressing and toss gently. Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing and Cooking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lentil Cucumber Salad