Mediterranean Lentil Salad with Avocado, Cherry Tomatoes & Lime-Cilantro Vinaigrette
This Mediterranean-inspired lentil salad is a colorful blend of protein-rich lentils, creamy avocado, and sweet cherry tomatoes tossed in a bright lime-cilantro vinaigrette. It’s a healthy, fiber-rich dish that works as a main salad, a side, or even for meal prep.
⏱️ Time
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes (if cooking lentils)
Total: 35 minutes
Ingredients
Salad
1 ½ cups cooked green or brown lentils (about ¾ cup dry)
1 large avocado, diced
1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
½ small red onion, finely chopped
1 small cucumber, diced (optional for crunch)
2 tbsp feta cheese (optional, crumbled)
2 tbsp toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch
Lime-Cilantro Vinaigrette
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tbsp)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
½ tsp Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook Lentils (if not pre-cooked)
Rinse lentils.
Place in a pot with 3 cups water and a pinch of salt.
Simmer 20 minutes, until just tender. Drain and cool.
2. Prepare Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, honey, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
3. Assemble Salad
In a large bowl, combine lentils, cherry tomatoes, avocado, onion, and cucumber.
Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
4. Add Garnishes
Sprinkle with feta (if using) and nuts/seeds.
Garnish with extra cilantro leaves.
Notes & Tips
Meal Prep Friendly: Keep avocado separate and add just before serving.
Extra Freshness: Add chopped bell peppers or arugula.
Protein Boost: Top with grilled chicken, salmon, or chickpeas.
Make It Creamier: Blend half an avocado into the vinaigrette for a creamy lime-cilantro dressing.
⁉️ Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I use canned lentils?
Yes — just rinse and drain well.
Q: How long does it keep?
Up to 3 days in the fridge, but add avocado fresh before serving.
Q: Can I swap cilantro?
Yes — parsley or mint works if you’re not a cilantro fan.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~310
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 10g
Fat: 16g
Sugar: 6g