Discover the Delicious Green Lentil Salad We Fell in Love with in Istanbul
Have you ever tasted something so delicious that you couldn’t stop thinking about it? That’s exactly what happened when we first tried this amazing green lentil salad in Istanbul. It was so flavorful and satisfying, you can easily make a meal out of it. For a while, I couldn’t find the same type of lentils back in the U.S. Then I started spotting them in the ethnic aisles of grocery stores. These were large green whole lentils. I even found the pre-cooked French green lentils at Trader Joe’s.
This salad is easy to pull together. It’s also bursting with fresh herbs, vibrant tomatoes, and bold spices. Serve it on its own. You can also enjoy it over a bed of lettuce or with pita chips. It’s guaranteed to be a hit. Ready to bring a taste of Istanbul to your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups whole green lentils (uncooked)
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced small
- 1 bunch scallions, chopped fine or a small red onion, diced fine
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1.5 tsp cumin powder
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper powder to taste
Method:
- In a small pot, add the lentils. Cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium high heat. Then turn to low and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Cook until lentils are soft, but still slightly firm. Do not overcook or the lentils will be mushy. Alternatively, put in the pressure cooker and cook for 12 minutes.
- Drain and let the lentils cool.
- While the lentils are cooking, make the dressing. Whisk the liquids in a salad bowl. Add in the herbs and spices and rest of the ingredients, except lentils. Mix well.
- When lentils are cool, add it in and combine thoroughly.
- Let rest in the fridge for the flavors to mix in – at least 15 minutes.
- Can be eaten on its own, over a bed of lettuce, or with pita chips!