A vibrant, fresh salad featuring earthy lentils, sweet cherries, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a light champagne vinaigrette. Perfect as a satisfying lunch or a colourful side dish.
Ingredients:
Salad
- 1 (540 mL) can/jar gourmet lentils, drained and rinsed (available at Olive Us)
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens, chopped
- 1 cup English cucumber, diced
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup sweet cherries, pitted and halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 to 2 Tbsp chopped fresh mint
- 1 to 2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1/3 cup roasted pistachios, optional
Champagne Vinaigrette
- 3 Tbsp Olive Us Champagne vinegar
- 6 Tbsp Olive Us mild to medium Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 to 2 tsp liquid honey
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Directions:
In a jar add champagne vinegar, EVOO, Dijon mustard, honey, shallot, salt, and pepper. Shake to emulsify. Place the drained lentils in a large bowl and toss with 2–3 Tbsp of the vinaigrette. Let stand for 10–15 minutes to allow the lentils to absorb the flavour. Add cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sweet cherries, mint, basil, and feta to the lentils. Toss gently to combine.
Just before serving, add chopped greens and drizzle with remaining vinaigrette. Toss gently until everything is lightly coated. Top with roasted pistachios, if using. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of champagne vinegar if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serves 4–6. Thanks to Loretta F. for creating and sharing her delicious recipe with Olive Us!