Description
This Healthy Lentil Taco Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed meal that is both nutritious and flavorful. It features seasoned lentils, fresh vegetables, and a creamy avocado dressing, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
1.5 cups Dry Brown or French Green Lentils
2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Yellow Onio
3 cloves Minced Garlic
1 tablespoon Cumi
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoon Chili Powder
1 large head Romaine Lettuce or Kale, chopped
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
4–5 Radishes, sliced
1 large Ripe Avocado, diced
3 tablespoons Fresh Lime Juice
1 teaspoon Pure Maple Syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the dry lentils thoroughly under cold water and cook them in a pot with three cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but firm. Drain excess liquid
- In a large skillet, heat the Extra Virgin Olive Oil over medium heat. Cook the diced onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant
- Add cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the skillet, toasting the spices for 30 seconds
- Fold the cooked lentils into the skillet, add a splash of water or broth, and a pinch of sea salt. Let them simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the seasoning
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, remaining Olive Oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt and pepper until emulsified
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped greens with half of the dressing
- Top the greens with the seasoned lentils, and arrange the cherry tomatoes, sliced radishes, and diced avocado on top
- Drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad and garnish with fresh cilantro and pepitas
Notes
Feel free to substitute black beluga lentils for a different texture, and adjust spices to taste.
For meal prep, store the lentils and greens separately to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 385 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 15 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg