As busy moms, we often juggle a million things at once, from work to school pick-ups, and everything in between. Finding meals that are quick, healthy, and tasty can feel overwhelming. This Moroccan Lentil Salad checks all the boxes! It’s vibrant, packed with nutrients, and comes together in a snap. Plus, it’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters in your family will enjoy. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dish that will add a special touch to your family’s meals.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moroccan Lentil Salad is your go-to recipe for several reasons. First, it packs a punch in flavor while remaining easy to prepare. You won’t spend hours in the kitchen, and it involves minimal cleanup. This salad is also very versatile, making it perfect for lunch boxes or quick dinners. It’s a fantastic source of protein and fiber, thanks to the lentils and veggies, so you can feel good about serving it. It’s comfort food that works for everyone and includes wholesome ingredients that are kid-friendly!
How to Make Moroccan Lentil Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup pitted olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated carrots, chopped herbs, nuts, olives, and raisins.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Moroccan Lentil Salad
A quick, healthy, and vibrant Moroccan Lentil Salad packed with nutrients, perfect for busy families.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup pitted olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated carrots, chopped herbs, nuts, olives, and raisins.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
This salad can be made a day in advance for even better flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook & Cooking
- Cuisine: Moroccan
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
How to Serve
This Moroccan Lentil Salad shines as a side dish or a main course. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a nutritious dinner. It also makes a great lunch the next day, either on its own or in a wrap. Feel free to add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese to elevate the flavors even further.
How to Store
Storing leftover Moroccan Lentil Salad is simple. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will last up to three days. When you are ready to enjoy it again, toss it gently to mix. If you find that the salad has absorbed the dressing, just drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice to freshen it up before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Switch up the nuts based on what you have on hand. Pecans or sunflower seeds work well too.
- For added texture and flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or cucumbers.
- Try adding some spices like coriander or even a pinch of chili powder for a kick if your family enjoys a bit of heat.
- Make it a meal by adding cooked quinoa or bulgur for extra heartiness.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will be even tastier as the flavors meld together.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or pita bread and hummus.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, using canned lentils is a great shortcut! Just rinse and add them to your salad.
Conclusion
Moroccan Lentil Salad is a fantastic recipe to have in your family meal rotation. It’s quick to whip up, healthy, and creates a vibrant dish that your family will love. So why not give it a try? Save this recipe for later, and enjoy the deliciousness it brings to your table time and again. Happy cooking!
