Minty Orzo Lentil and Feta Salad

Jun 07, 2023June 7, 20230 12
Minty Orzo Lentil and Feta Salad – A Refreshingly Satisfying Meal
in Salad

Prep

10 min

Cook

25-30 min

Ready In

40 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 1/4 cups orzo pasta
6 tablespoons olive oil , divided
3/4 cup dried brown lentils , rinsed and drained
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
3 cloves garlic , minced
1/2 cup kalamata olives , pitted and chopped
1 1/2 cups crumbled feta cheese
1 small red onion , diced
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
salt and pepper to taste

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
4-6
Calories
360
Sugar
2g
Fat
22g
The Minty Orzo Lentil and Feta Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal for lunch or dinner. Popular in Mediterranean cuisine, this hearty salad is an excellent source of protein and fiber from the lentils, and fresh flavor from the mint and dill. The creamy feta cheese makes it rich and indulgent, and the fresh herbs give it a bright and zesty flavor. It’s an ideal option for vegetarians and vegans as it’s entirely plant-based. Serve this refreshing salad chilled or at room temperature and delight your taste buds with every bite.

Instructions

1.Cook the orzo according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2.In a separate pot, bring lentils and 3 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes until tender. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3.In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and salt and pepper to taste.
4.Add the cooked orzo and lentils to a large bowl. Toss with the dressing along with kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, diced onion, and fresh mint and dill.
5.Drizzle remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil and more salt and pepper to taste. Toss well before serving chilled or at room temperature.

PROS

This salad is full of fresh and zesty flavors and textures.

It’s incredibly satisfying, thanks to the protein-packed lentils and feta cheese.

Easy to prepare and store in the refrigerator and suitable for meal prep.

CONS

It can be challenging to find fresh herbs, which may be expensive or difficult to source.

It may be a bit time-consuming to cook the lentils, but it’s worth the effort.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This salad is packed with nutritional goodness. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, high in fiber, and low in fat and calories. They can help control blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, and improve heart health. Kalamata olives are a nutritious source of monounsaturated fats, which help to reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure. Feta cheese is high in protein, calcium, and vitamin D, necessary for strong bones. The fresh herbs in this salad boost immune function and digestion.

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