Indian Lentil Salad
Prep
20 mins
Cook
30 mins
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy
My favorite quick weeknight dinner has to be this Indian lentil salad. Red lentils are absolutely packed with protein and fiber, making them perfect for keeping you satisfied and energized. The best part? The whole thing comes together in just fifty minutes, and it costs so little to make. I love how the warm spiced lentils contrast with crisp, fresh vegetables, creating this incredible balance of flavors and textures. It's comfort food that feels light and healthy, and honestly, it tastes even better the next day.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 250red lentils
- 1onion(diced)
- 2ginger(grated)
- 3garlic(minced)
- 1cumin seeds
- 1coriander seeds
- 1 gturmeric powder
- ½ ggaram masala powder
- ½ gsalt
- 20oil
- 2 mllemon juice
- 1cucumber(diced)
- 1tomato(diced)
- 200spinach
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Use a fine-mesh sieve for easier draining.
- 2
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and coriander seeds and let them sizzle for 1 minute.
Tip: Be careful not to burn the spices.
- 3
Add ginger and garlic to the pan and sauté for 1 minute.
Tip: Mince the ginger and garlic before adding to the pan.
- 4
Add turmeric powder and garam masala powder to the pan and stir well.
Tip: Mix well to avoid lumps.
- 5
Add the soaked lentils and enough water to cover them to the pan.
Tip: Adjust the water level according to your desired consistency.
- 6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the lentils are cooked.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 7
In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, ginger, garlic, and spices and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Tip: Adjust the spice level according to your taste.
- 8
Add cucumber, tomato, and spinach to the pan and stir well.
Tip: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- 9
Once the lentils are cooked, mash them slightly and add them to the pan with the vegetables.
Tip: Mix well to combine.
- 10
Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss well.
Tip: Adjust the amount according to your taste.
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