Lentil Salad

Yemeni Lentil Salad Recipe with Vinaigrette, Hazelnuts, and Parsley

Region / culture: Yemen | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Lentil salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. This recipe features black beluga lentils, which are small and flavorful lentils that hold their shape well when cooked. The lentils are mixed with a tangy vinaigrette, shallots, roasted hazelnuts, and fresh parsley to create a satisfying and flavorful salad.

History

Lentils have been a staple food in many cultures for thousands of years. They are one of the oldest cultivated crops and have been enjoyed in various forms, including soups, stews, and salads. Lentil salad is a popular dish in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, where lentils are often combined with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing.

Ingredients

4.5 cups (2 lb or 907 g) black beluga lentils
1.5 cups vinaigrette (see below)
1 cup (5 oz or 142 g) finely chopped shallots
1 cup (6 oz or 170 g) hazelnuts, roasted, skins rubbed off and coarsely chopped
4 tbsp chopped parsley
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Vinaigrette

6 tbsp sherry vinegar
salt
1.13 cups extra virgin olive oil
2 tsp dijon mustard
Freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Rinse the lentils and pick over any impurities.
Place the rinsed lentils in a large saucepan and cover them with 3 qt (2.84 liters) of cold water.
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the lentils simmer until they are tender, which usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes.
The cooking time may vary depending on the freshness of the lentils. New crop lentils tend to cook faster, so it's important to test them often.
Once the lentils are tender, drain them and transfer them to a large bowl.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or cucumbers for a fresh and colorful addition.
Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy and tangy twist.
Stir in some cooked quinoa or bulgur for added texture and protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.

- Test the lentils often while cooking to ensure they are tender but not mushy.

- Roasting the hazelnuts adds a delicious nutty flavor to the salad.

- Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

This lentil salad can be served as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. You can also serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing salad.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the lentils until they are tender but still hold their shape.

- Toasting the hazelnuts before chopping them adds a rich and nutty flavor to the salad.

- Whisk the vinaigrette ingredients together until emulsified for a smooth and well-balanced dressing.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use green or brown lentils instead of black beluga lentils.

- Substitute walnuts or almonds for the hazelnuts.

- Use red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar in place of sherry vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

This lentil salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the lentil salad with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a beautiful and elegant presentation. Serve it in a large bowl or on individual plates for a stunning and appetizing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

This lentil salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes nicely with a light and refreshing beer, such as a pilsner or wheat beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover lentil salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this lentil salad contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying and nutritious option for a light lunch or dinner.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this lentil salad contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Lentils are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady source of energy and help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of this lentil salad contains approximately 20 grams of fat. The majority of the fat comes from the extra virgin olive oil in the vinaigrette, which is a heart-healthy source of monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of this lentil salad contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Lentils are a great plant-based source of protein, making this salad a satisfying and nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamins and minerals

Lentils are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. This salad also contains parsley, which is rich in vitamin K and vitamin C.

Alergens

This lentil salad contains hazelnuts, which are a tree nut. If you have a tree nut allergy, you can omit the hazelnuts or substitute them with another type of nut or seed.

Summary

Overall, this lentil salad is a nutritious and balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Lentil salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is easy to make and versatile to enjoy. This recipe features black beluga lentils, roasted hazelnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette for a satisfying and delicious salad that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, and feel good knowing you are nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

How did I get this recipe?

. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria had always been known for her delicious dishes, and I was eager to learn some of her secrets.

As we chatted and caught up on old times, Maria suddenly got up from her chair and rummaged through her old recipe box. She pulled out a faded, yellowed piece of paper and handed it to me with a smile.

"Here, my dear," she said. "This is a recipe for Lentil Salad that my grandmother used to make. It's simple, but oh so flavorful. I think you'll love it."

I took the recipe from her hands and read through the ingredients and instructions. It seemed easy enough, but there was something about the way Maria talked about it that made me believe this dish was something special.

That evening, I gathered all the ingredients needed for the Lentil Salad and set to work in my own kitchen. The aroma of the lentils simmering on the stove filled the air, and I felt a sense of accomplishment as I followed the recipe to a tee.

When the salad was finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly transported back to Maria's kitchen. The flavors were bold and comforting, with a perfect balance of tanginess and earthiness. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I've made this Lentil Salad countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I've shared it with friends and family, and it has always been met with rave reviews.

But the true beauty of this recipe lies not just in its delicious flavors, but in the memories and stories that come with it. Every time I make this Lentil Salad, I am reminded of that summer day in Maria's kitchen, of the warmth and love that went into every bite.

And so, as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I am grateful for the friendships and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I may have learned this recipe from Maria, but it is now a part of me, a reflection of my own journey and love for cooking.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and flavorful dish, look no further than my Lentil Salad recipe. I promise it will not disappoint, and perhaps it will even inspire you to create your own memories in the kitchen.