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Lentil Salmon Salad Recipe

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4.1 from 49 reviews

A vibrant, protein-packed Lentil Salmon Salad combining creamy Greek yogurt with balsamic and pepperoncini dressing, fresh herbs, and a medley of crisp vegetables. This quick and easy salad is perfect for a nutritious lunch or light dinner, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures with healthy lentils and canned salmon.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt or Dairy-Free yogurt (120g)
  • 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar (lemon infused is delicious) (45g)
  • 3 Tbsp. pepperoncini juice (45g)
  • 3 frozen cubes of garlic or minced garlic cloves (15g)
  • 1 bunch fresh dill, chopped (10-15g)
  • Handful fresh basil, chopped (10g)
  • Handful fresh mint, chopped (5-10g)
  • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • Pinch black pepper

Salad

  • 2 1/2 cups steamed and cooled lentils (500g cooked weight)
  • 1/2 red onion, diced (130g)
  • 2 cups cucumbers, diced (480g)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (210g)
  • 2 sweet bell peppers, diced (285g)
  • 4 (5-oz) cans salmon, drained (452g drained weight)
  • More salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional squeeze of fresh lemon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In the bottom of a large salad bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, balsamic vinegar, pepperoncini juice, frozen garlic cubes (or minced garlic), chopped fresh dill, basil, mint, kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add Lentils and Vegetables: Rinse pre-cooked lentils to keep them fresh and pretty, then add the cooled lentils along with diced red onion, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and diced sweet bell peppers to the bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat the lentils and vegetables with the dressing.
  3. Incorporate Salmon: Add the drained canned salmon to the bowl and gently toss the mixture to combine without breaking up the salmon too much, ensuring even distribution throughout the salad.
  4. Final Seasoning and Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad for a bright finish. Serve immediately as a wholesome salad, toss with greens for extra freshness, or enjoy as a high protein, high fiber dip with chips.

Notes

  • Using lemon-infused balsamic vinegar adds a refreshing citrus hint to the dressing.
  • Frozen garlic cubes can be substituted with fresh minced garlic cloves.
  • Rinsing pre-cooked lentils helps prevent mushiness and keeps the salad visually appealing.
  • This salad can be enjoyed on its own, mixed with fresh greens, or as a dip with chips for a versatile snack.
  • Adjust herbs and seasoning to your taste preferences.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes (for steaming lentils, if not pre-cooked)
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat