This hearty and flavorful French lentil salad is perfect for a light dinner or lunch. Made with tender lentils, fresh herbs, and creamy goat cheese, it’s refreshing and deliciously filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
French Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese is the ideal balance of fresh, nutritious ingredients that come together in a quick, easy-to-make dish. The tender French green lentils absorb the flavor of the chicken broth, creating a savory base for this salad. The crunch of the carrot and celery combined with the tanginess of the lemon juice and Dijon mustard makes every bite exciting. Topping the salad with creamy goat cheese adds a rich, indulgent contrast to the fresh, vibrant flavors. This dish is not only satisfying and protein-packed, but it’s also an excellent choice for meal prep, a light lunch, or even as a hearty side for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup French green lentils (or common brown or green lentils)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 large carrot, finely diced
- 2 ribs celery, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 3 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 oz goat cheese, crumbled
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare the Lentils:
Rinse lentils thoroughly and pick over to remove any debris. In a medium saucepan, combine lentils, chicken broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender—about 25-30 minutes for French green lentils or 20-25 minutes for common brown or green lentils. Remove bay leaf, strain, and let cool. -
Combine Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix carrot, celery, thyme, parsley, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. -
Assemble the Salad:
Add the cooled lentils to the bowl with the other ingredients. Toss well to combine, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. -
Serve:
Transfer salad to a serving dish, crumble goat cheese on top, and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Chill Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 (as a side dish)
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: For a completely vegetarian version, swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Add Protein: Add grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
- Herb Substitution: Swap thyme for oregano or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Goat Cheese Alternatives: If goat cheese isn't your favorite, feta or ricotta salata are great alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even better the next day.
- Reheating: For best results, serve the salad cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, you can gently reheat the lentils in the microwave or on the stovetop, but the fresh vegetables and goat cheese are best enjoyed at their original temperatures.
FAQs
How long will this French lentil salad last in the fridge?
It will last for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use dried lentils for this recipe?
Yes, dried lentils are perfect for this recipe, just ensure they are cooked until tender.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feta cheese or ricotta salata can be used as alternatives to goat cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this French lentil salad is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or cherry tomatoes for more texture and flavor.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, skip the goat cheese and use a plant-based dressing instead of the honey.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, canned lentils can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to rinse them well before adding them to the salad.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this salad a filling and nutritious meal.
Can I make this salad spicy?
If you like some heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Conclusion
French Lentil Salad with Goat Cheese is a delightful dish that combines wholesome ingredients with bold flavors. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it's perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, filling meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Packed with fiber, protein, and fresh herbs, this salad is an easy way to enjoy a nutritious lunch or dinner. Enjoy the balance of textures and flavors in every bite—it's sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
