French Lentil Salad recipe with tuna
Green Lentil Salad: A Refreshing, Light, and Flavorful Summer Delight
This chilled green lentil salad is a delicious, satisfying, and revitalizing dish.
Perfect for summer gatherings around a barbecue, a quick and healthy lunch, or a breezy evening meal, it’s a versatile recipe brimming with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
French Green Lentil Salad Recipe: A Healthy and Flavorful Choice
Looking for a nutritious and delicious dish? This chilled green lentil salad is a summer favorite!
Perfect as a side for grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
Green lentils are packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this salad both healthy and satisfying.
Low in fat and calories, it’s an ideal option for those aiming to eat well without compromising on taste.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. The combination of tender lentils, zesty red onion, and protein-rich tuna creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy summer days.
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.
Add a handful of fresh herbs, swap tuna for grilled chicken, or include seasonal vegetables for an extra twist.
Whether for a light lunch or a side dish at your next barbecue, this cold green lentil salad is sure to become a staple in your summer menu.
Ingredient for lentil salad
- 3 tbsp olive oil: A high-quality olive oil adds a rich, fruity flavor and a silky texture to the salad, tying all the ingredients together while providing healthy monounsaturated fats.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings a bright, tangy kick that balances the richness of the tuna and olive oil while enhancing the other flavors.
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped: Adds a subtle, aromatic bite and depth of flavor to the dressing. Adjust the quantity to your taste if you prefer a stronger garlic punch.
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder: Adds warm, earthy undertones that complement the lentils beautifully, making the dish more fragrant and flavorful.
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander: Offers a mild, citrusy note that pairs well with the freshness of the herbs and the brightness of the lemon juice.
- 1 tbsp mustard with seeds: The wholegrain mustard adds a tangy depth and a slight crunch, boosting both the texture and flavor complexity.
- 1 small red onion: Thinly sliced, it adds a crisp, slightly spicy element and a pop of vibrant color. Soaking it in cold water for a few minutes can mellow its sharpness.
- 2 tomatoes, diced: Fresh, ripe tomatoes bring juiciness, natural sweetness, and a burst of color to the salad. Cherry tomatoes can be a great alternative.
- 400g cooked and drained lentils: The star of the salad, lentils are a powerhouse of protein, fiber, iron, and essential nutrients. Use dried lentils for the freshest taste—just blanch them until tender—or opt for canned lentils for a quicker preparation.
- 185g drained canned tuna: A convenient source of lean protein that pairs perfectly with the lentils, adding a savory and hearty element to the salad. Choose tuna packed in water or olive oil based on your preference.
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander: Fresh coriander (cilantro) provides a burst of herbal freshness, tying together the earthy and tangy notes of the salad. Adjust the amount based on your taste.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper enhances the overall flavor, adding a subtle heat that ties all the ingredients together.
How to Make Green Lentil Salad
– Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, cumin powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Keep in mind that the tuna and lentils already have some natural saltiness.
– Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, diced red onion, cooked and drained lentils, flaked tuna, and chopped coriander.
- Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
– Add the Dressing:
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
– Serve and Enjoy:
- Your salad is ready to serve—tasty, nutritious, and perfect for any meal.
Tips for Making the Best Lentil Salad
- Cook Lentils Properly: Ensure the lentils are cooked until tender but not mushy. Overcooked lentils can lose their shape and create a mushy texture in the salad.
- Chop Vegetables Evenly: Dice the tomatoes and onion into similar-sized pieces for a balanced texture and easier eating.
- Timing the Dressing: Add the dressing about 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Prepare Ahead Thoughtfully: If making the salad in advance, only add a small amount of the dressing initially. Reserve the rest to drizzle just before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness and crispness.
Other recipe to try
- Potato and egg salad
- Easy creamy and smooth hummus
- Avocado deviled eggs recipe
- Avocado Mousse and Smoked Salmon
- Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops easy Recipe
French lentil salad with tuna
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp mustard with seeds
- 1 small red onion
- 2 tomatoes diced
- 400 g cooked and drained lentils
- 185 g drained canned tuna
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander
- Black pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped garlic, cumin powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Keep in mind that the tuna and lentils already have some natural saltiness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, diced red onion, cooked and drained lentils, flaked tuna, and chopped coriander.
- Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
- Your salad is ready to serve—tasty, nutritious, and perfect for any meal.
