Healthy Vegan Pomegranate Lentil Salad with Cucumbers Recipe

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One crisp autumn afternoon, Lauren and I were strolling through the local farmers' market when we stumbled upon a vendor selling the juiciest pomegranates we'd ever seen. The vibrant ruby seeds sparked memories of our childhood, where we'd sit on the porch, carefully extracting each aril, our fingers stained red. Inspired, we decided to create a dish that combined these sweet-tart gems with hearty lentils, crafting a salad that quickly became a staple at our family gatherings. Lauren adores how the pomegranate seeds add a burst of flavor, while I appreciate the protein-packed lentils that make this salad both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

cooked green or brown lentils
pomegranate seeds
cucumber, diced
fresh parsley, chopped
fresh mint, chopped
red onion, finely chopped
olive oil
lemon juice
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water.
In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with water and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer until tender but not mushy.
Drain and let cool.

Prepare the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, pomegranate seeds, diced cucumber, chopped parsley, chopped mint, and finely chopped red onion.

Dress the salad

Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

Chill and serve

Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This Pomegranate Lentil Salad has become a cherished recipe in our household, especially during the fall and winter months when pomegranates are in season. The combination of earthy lentils and the bright, juicy burst of pomegranate seeds creates a delightful contrast that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Lauren often pairs it with warm crusty bread, while I love it as a standalone meal for a light lunch.

We hope this salad brings warmth and joy to your table, just as it does to ours. It's a testament to how simple, wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you're preparing it for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this salad is sure to impress and satisfy.