Warm Chickpea and Lentil Salad with Carrots
This warm salad is a wholesome mix of earthy lentils, creamy chickpeas, and tender roasted carrots. Tossed with a lemon-garlic dressing and fresh herbs, it makes a perfect light main dish or side. The combination of protein-rich legumes and root vegetables creates a filling, comforting meal.
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 medium carrots (peeled, sliced into thin sticks or rounds)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp cumin powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, can skip if you prefer non-spicy)
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup brown or green lentils (uncooked, rinsed)
1 can (400g) chickpeas (drained & rinsed, or 1 ½ cups cooked)
¼ red onion (thinly sliced)
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
2 tbsp fresh mint (chopped, optional)
¼ cup crumbled feta (optional, for garnish)
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 garlic clove (minced)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Roast the Carrots:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss carrots with olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
2. Cook the Lentils:
In a saucepan, cover lentils with water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cook for 20–25 minutes until just tender (not mushy). Drain well.
3. Prepare Dressing:
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble Salad:
In a large bowl, combine lentils, chickpeas, roasted carrots, and red onion.
Toss with dressing while still warm so the flavors absorb well.
Sprinkle parsley, mint, and feta on top before serving.
Notes & Tips
Use French green lentils (du Puy) for the best texture, as they hold their shape well.
For extra crunch, add toasted walnuts or almonds.
Can be served warm or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days – it tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, but rinse them well and skip the cooking step – the texture will be softer.
Q: How do I make it vegan?
Just leave out the feta or swap with a vegan cheese.
Q: Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Keep the dressing separate and toss before serving for the freshest taste.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~340 kcal
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 12g
Fat: 10g