Vegan Carrot & Lentil Salad

Vegan Carrot & Lentil Salad is a wholesome and vibrant side dish. It is made with lentils, carrots, and lemon juice. It is ideal for a simple and quick supper. Essential fiber, vitamins, and protein are present in the salad. The lentils offer a boost of plant-based protein and iron. Meanwhile, carrots bring a pop of color and sweetness along with a healthy amount of antioxidants and beta-carotene. Additionally, you can alter the Vegan Carrot & Lentil Salad to your choice by incorporating vegetables, spices, and herbs. It meets various dietary requirements because it is free of dairy and nuts.

Let’s begin the recipe with the directions (stated below).

STATS

• Course: Side dish
• Cuisine: Mediterranean
• Diet: Dairy-free, Vegan, Nut-free, Gluten-free
• Total Time: Forty minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Method: Stovetop
• Servings: 4

EQUIPMENT

• Nonstick pot
• 1 large bowl
• Small vessel/container
• One spoon
• Salad cups

INGREDIENTS

• One cup of green or brown lentils
• Grated carrots, 2 cups
• One-fourth cup of chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup of fresh mint
• Extracted lemon juice, fresh 2 tbsp
• Premium olive oil, one tablespoon
• Salt add to taste
  Black pepper (crushed) adds to the flavor

Optional Seasonings

• Cumin 1/4 tsp
• One-fourth tsp of paprika

INGREDIENT NOTES AND THEIR ALTERNATIVES

Lentils:

• Lentils that retain their shape after cooking, such as brown, green, or black, perform well. Red lentils are usually not advised for this kind of salad because they can get mushy.

Dressing:

• We utilize a lemon juice and olive oil mixture as a dressing. You can try this salad with different dressings, such as tahini-based, creamy vegan dressings, etc.

Carrots:

• Opt for fresh and bright colored carrots.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Wash the lentils with regular water to remove any debris.
2. After that, add the washed lentils with water (approx. 2 cups) to the nonstick pot.
3. Simmer it over high-stovetop heat.
4. After reaching a boil, lower the fire.
5. Cook for 18 to 26 minutes or until it is done and slightly al dente.
6. Next, drain its extra liquid and set it aside to chill.
7. After that, add mint, grated carrots, cooked lentils, and parsley to a big bowl.
8. Next, add olive oil and lemon juice to a small vessel.
9. Stir both items with a spoon.
10. Then, pour the olive oil and lemon juice into the carrots and lentils bowl.
11. Next, add black pepper, salt, and optional items like paprika and cumin to the bowl.
12. Now, combine the salad and seasonings with a spoon.
13. The tangy and satisfying Carrot and Lentil Salad is prepared.
14. Shift the lentil salad to the salad cups or chill it in the refrigerator for future consumption.

CREATIVE ADDITIONS TO THE SALAD

Avocado:

• Incorporate avocado slices over the salad for a creamy flavor.

Seeds:

• Add seeds or nuts such as sunflower seeds, almonds, walnuts, etc, to the salad.

Vegan feta:

• You can add chunks or shredded vegan feta cheese.

Tahini dressing:

• It doubles the salad’s flavor.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Top a whole grain wrap with the avocado, hummus, and carrot & lentil salad.
• Enjoy this salad with roasted or grilled vegetables like Brussels sprouts.
• Serve it with pita bread, falafel, or low-point vegan tahini sauce.
• Vegan soups like vegetable or lentil pair well with this salad.

TIPS

• Select bright orange and fresh carrots to create this refreshing salad.
• Cook lentils until they are soft and chewable.
• Use premium-quality olive oil to achieve a deep, savory flavor.
• Add additional spices to the salad according to taste.

STORAGE INFORMATION

Fridge:

• You can store the lentil salad in a covered jar and refrigerate it for 3 to 4 days.

Freezer:

• It is not advised to freeze this salad because the lentils and vegetables may get soggy when thawed. It tastes best when consumed fresh.

FAQs

Can we use canned lentils instead of raw lentils?

• Yes, canned lentils are an economical and useful choice. Toss them into the salad after giving them a good rinse.

What more veggies can I include in this lentil salad?

• There are unlimited options. You can add chopped bell peppers, celery, peas, cucumbers, red onion, or even roasted veggies like beets or sweet potatoes.

How do I raise the nutritional content of this salad?

• This tasty salad will become more fulfilling by adding legumes like kidney beans, chickpeas, or grains like brown rice or quinoa.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION/SERVING

Total Calories 250 kcal
Dietary Fiber 10 g
Carbohydrates 35 g
Sugar 6 g
Sodium 200 mg
Total Fat 10 g
Protein 9 g
Iron 3.3 mg