Lentil Salad with Salmon

This vibrant salad combines hearty lentils with tender, flaky salmon for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

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TIME30 min

SERVINGS4

RATING4.8 / 5

COOKBOOK / 32623

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

Adjust servings4

½ cup lentils, rinsed 1 cup water, or as needed to cover 1 salmon fillet 1 slice Black Forest-style bacon (Optional) ¼ red onion, diced 5 small fresh mozzarella balls (boccaccini), cut into quarters (Optional) ¼ cup diced cucumber, or to taste 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon mustard salt and ground black pepper to taste

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Simmer Lentils

Start by cooking the lentils in just enough water to cover them, letting them simmer over medium heat until they’re tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Once they’re done, set them aside to cool.

02

Broil the Salmon

Next, preheat your oven’s broiler and position the rack about 6 inches from the heat. Place the salmon under the broiler and cook it until it flakes easily with a fork, around 5 to 7 minutes per side. When it’s cooked through, chop it up and let it cool.

03

Crisp the Bacon

While the salmon is cooking, heat a small skillet over medium-high heat and cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Chop the bacon and set it aside to cool as well.

04

Mix Ingredients Together

Once everything has cooled, combine the lentils, salmon, bacon, red onion, mozzarella, and cucumber in a big bowl.

05

Whisk and Toss Dressing

For the dressing, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour it over the salad and gently toss everything together so it’s all nicely coated.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
- Cook lentils until tender but not mushy to maintain a pleasant texture.
- For perfectly cooked salmon, use medium heat and avoid overcooking to keep it moist and flaky.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the heartiness of lentils with the rich flavor of salmon, creating a balanced and nutritious meal. It is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and good for you. The fresh ingredients add brightness and texture that keep every bite interesting.

Serving ideas

Serve this dish slightly warm or chilled, depending on your preference. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any dressing. A squeeze of fresh lemon or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavors even more.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salmon and lentils separate if possible, to maintain the best texture. Reheat gently or enjoy cold as a refreshing salad.