Did you know that 1 cup of lentils provides about 90% of our daily need for folate? Folate is a B vitamin that is very important for cell division, and becomes especially important during pregnancy. Lentils are are also a good source of vegetarian protein, and dietary fiber, and many vitamins and minerals. Because of all this, they are a great food to learn to cook and incorporate into your diet. Try this lentil salad that is delicious with a punch of saltiness from the olives and feta, and crunch from the cucumber.
Ingredients
Lentils
- 1 cup brown or French lentils, dry
Tomato
- 1 each, diced
Cucumber
- ½ each, diced
Onion
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
Feta
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
Olives
- 1 Tablespoon black olives, sliced
Dressing
- ¼ cup low-fat Greek Dressing or other non-creamy salad dressing
Greens
- 4 cups fresh spinach, kale leaves, arugula, mesclun or other greens
Instructions
Step 1
Bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add lentils and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-30 minutes until tender. Rinse in a strainer under cold running water. Place in a large bowl.
Step 2
Add tomato, cucumber, onion, feta cheese, and olives. Toss with Greek dressing.
Step 3
Serve on a bed of fresh spinach.