Warm pea and lentil salad

Table of contents

Warm Pea and Lentil Salad

This Warm Pea and Lentil Salad is a delightful blend of earthy lentils and sweet peas, tossed in a tangy lemon dressing. It’s a perfect side dish or a light main course, offering a balance of flavors and textures that make it truly special. The addition of fresh herbs and a hint of garlic elevates this dish, making it a refreshing yet comforting choice for any meal.

Serving Size and Yield

Serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a main course.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
2 cups water
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional)

Instructions

Cook the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water.
Blanch the peas: If using fresh peas, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and set aside. If using frozen peas, simply thaw them.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the cooked lentils and peas to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley and mint, if using. Serve warm.

Additional Notes

For a heartier salad, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts. You can also substitute the green lentils with brown or black lentils for a different texture.