French Green Lentil Salad

Beans aren’t the only member of the legume family worth celebrating. Lentils, packed with fiber and protein, are just as nutritious. Plus they cook up in only 15 to 20 minutes (no soaking required). This simple salad, seasoned with a French vinaigrette, is a classic dish in France. Because the flavors continue to meld, it’s also great the next day.

Makes 6 (1-cup) servings

Ingredients

FOR THE LENTILS

• 3 cups French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups water
• 4 teaspoons reduced sodium vegetable base
• 4 stalks celery, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 medium shallots, finely diced
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• Pinch of sea salt (optional)

FOR THE DRESSING

• 6 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 6 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 teaspoons Herbes de Provence
• 3 medium garlic clove, pressed or minced
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

To make the lentils, combine the lentils, water, and vegetable base in a saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the lentils are tender but firm.

Remove from the heat, drain any remaining liquid, and transfer the lentils to a large bowl. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Stir in the celery, tomatoes, shallots, and parsley.

To make the dressing, combine the mustard, vinegar, Herbes de Provence, pepper, and garlic in a small dish, and whisk.

Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss well to combine. Season with salt to taste, if desired. Serve chilled

Source: Adapted from Plant-Powered for Life. https://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/french-green-lentil-salad/