Description
Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad is a simple yet sophisticated dish that features French green lentils as the base. These lentils are cooked in chicken broth to enhance their flavor and are then combined with fresh vegetables, a zesty Dijon mustard dressing, and crumbled goat cheese. The salad is seasoned with fresh thyme and parsley, giving it an aromatic and herbaceous kick. The dressing, made from lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil, adds a tangy sweetness to complement the earthiness of the lentils and the richness of the goat cheese.
Ingredients
- French Green Lentils – 1 cup
- Chicken Broth – 3 cups
- Bay Leaf – 1
- Carrot – 1 (finely diced)
- Celery – 2 ribs (finely diced)
- Fresh Thyme – 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Parsley – 3 tablespoons (chopped)
- Garlic Clove – 1 (minced)
- Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon
- Honey – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – ¼ cup
- Goat Cheese – 3 ounces (crumbled)
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils
- Rinse lentils and remove any debris.
- In a saucepan, combine lentils, chicken broth, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Remove bay leaf, strain, and let cool.
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix cooled lentils with diced carrot, celery, thyme, parsley, and garlic.
- Toss with the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Finish & Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish and crumble goat cheese over the top.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
This Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad is not only nutritious but incredibly versatile. Feel free to add roasted beets, toasted walnuts, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth and flavor. It makes a perfect light lunch or a hearty side dish. Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers hold up well for the next day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Lentil and Goat Cheese Salad Recipe