Lentil Salad with Spinach and Apricot
Lentil Salad with Spinach-Apricot delivers a distinctive twist on a classic salad by combining hearty legumes with fresh greens and sweet dried fruit. This blend creates a satisfying dish that balances comfort with vibrant flavors. It offers a fresh way to enjoy lentils beyond traditional methods.
Equipment
- Large pot To cook lentils
- Large Bowl To combine salad ingredients
- Small Bowl To prepare dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown or green lentils rinsed thoroughly
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves washed and dried
- ½ cup dried apricots chopped, soaked briefly in warm water, then drained
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice for dressing
- 1 small shallot or red onion minced
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh herbs (parsley or mint) chopped
- ¼ cup nuts or seeds (optional) toasted for added texture and flavor
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils – Rinse lentils thoroughly and simmer in salted water until tender but firm, about 20-25 minutes. Drain well and cool slightly to prevent sogginess.
- Prepare the Dressing – Whisk olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced shallots, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Adjust acidity or sweetness as preferred.
- Soften the Apricots – Chop dried apricots and soak briefly in warm water to plump. Drain well to avoid tough bites and blend better.
- Combine Salad Ingredients – Toss cooked lentils with fresh spinach, soaked apricots, and chopped fresh herbs in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing and mix gently but thoroughly.
- Add Optional Crunch – Toast nuts or seeds and fold in for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Rest Before Serving – Let the salad sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes for flavors to meld.
Notes
- Properly rinse and drain lentils to prevent sogginess.
- Use fresh spinach washed and thoroughly dried to keep the salad crisp.
- Soak dried apricots briefly to soften and improve texture.
- Optional nuts or seeds add delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
- This salad can be served warm or chilled for versatility.
- Store in airtight containers and cool completely before refrigerating for best freshness.
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