Rainbow Lentil, Citrus & Herb Salad with Spiced Pomegranate Dressing
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Rainbow Lentil, Citrus & Herb Salad with Spiced Pomegranate Dressing

Indulge in a nutrient-packed Rainbow Lentil Citrus Salad with vibrant flavors and a spiced pomegranate dressing. Perfect for clean eating!

Experience a refreshing burst of flavors with our Rainbow Lentil, Citrus & Herb Salad, a perfect choice for those seeking a wholesome and vibrant meal. Packed with protein-rich lentils, this salad is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Fresh citrus fruits not only add a zesty kick but also provide a generous dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. What makes this salad truly unique is its spiced pomegranate dressing, infused with aromatic spices and tangy pomegranate molasses, creating a culinary symphony that dances on your palate. This salad is not just a meal; it's an experience, combining the earthiness of lentils with the brightness of citrus and the warmth of spices, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Recipe Overview

🥗 Vegetarian
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Servings
4
Calories
375 kcal
per serving
Cuisine
Mediterranean

Indulge in a nutrient-packed Rainbow Lentil Citrus Salad with vibrant flavors and a spiced pomegranate dressing. Perfect for clean eating!

Ingredients

  • green lentils: 1 cup, rinsed
  • water: 3 cups
  • salt: 1/2 teaspoon
  • orange: 1 large, peeled and segmented
  • grapefruit: 1 large, peeled and segmented
  • pomegranate seeds: 1/2 cup
  • fresh mint leaves: 1/4 cup, chopped
  • fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
  • red onion: 1/2, thinly sliced
  • olive oil: 3 tablespoons
  • pomegranate molasses: 2 tablespoons
  • ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
  • ground coriander: 1/2 teaspoon
  • cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
  • honey: 1 tablespoon (optional)
  • black pepper: to taste
Ingredients for Rainbow Lentil, Citrus & Herb Salad with Spiced Pomegranate Dressing

Instructions

  1. 1 In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until the lentils are tender but not mushy, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. 2 While the lentils are cooking, prepare the citrus fruits. Carefully peel and segment the orange and grapefruit, removing any seeds. Set the segments aside.
  3. 3 In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, citrus segments, pomegranate seeds, chopped mint, parsley, and sliced red onion.
  4. 4 In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, pomegranate molasses, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and honey (if using). Season with black pepper to taste.
  5. 5 Pour the spiced pomegranate dressing over the lentil and citrus mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  6. 6 Allow the salad to sit for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

  • This Rainbow Lentil, Citrus & Herb Salad is a perfect standalone meal for a light lunch or dinner. To complement the vibrant flavors and enhance the nutritional profile, consider pairing it with a side of whole-grain flatbread or a quinoa pilaf. For a refreshing beverage, a glass of iced hibiscus tea or a sparkling water infused with a splash of lime would make a delightful accompaniment. If you're hosting a gathering, serve this salad as a centerpiece by arranging it on a large platter, allowing guests to admire its vivid colors and enticing presentation. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of toasted seeds for added texture and visual appeal.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its fresh texture, consider storing the dressing separately and combine just before serving. This prevents the salad ingredients from becoming soggy and preserves their vibrant flavors.

Ratings & Reviews

5.0
Based on 1 rating

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Rainbow Lentil, Citrus & Herb Salad with Spiced Pomegranate Dressing

PT45M PT20M PT25M 4 servings https://dishitsimple.com/recipes/rainbow-harvest-salad-maple-tahini-dressinghttps://dishitsimple.com/recipes/hearty-mediterranean-orzo-salad-zesty-lemon-herb-dressinghttps://dishitsimple.com/recipes/vibrant-mediterranean-orzo-salad-with-lemon-herb-grilled-halloumi green lentils: 1 cup, rinsedwater: 3 cupssalt: 1/2 teaspoonorange: 1 large, peeled and segmentedgrapefruit: 1 large, peeled and segmentedpomegranate seeds: 1/2 cupfresh mint leaves: 1/4 cup, choppedfresh parsley: 1/4 cup, choppedred onion: 1/2, thinly slicedolive oil: 3 tablespoonspomegranate molasses: 2 tablespoonsground cumin: 1 teaspoonground coriander: 1/2 teaspooncayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoonhoney: 1 tablespoon (optional)black pepper: to taste
Rated 5 out of 5 based on 1 ratings