Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and wholesome goodness, the Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl is exactly what you need to brighten up your meals. This hearty salad combines tender aubergine and sweet roasted tomatoes with the warmth of aromatic spices like zatar and paprika, all tossed together with nutritious lentils and refreshing baby greens. The zingy lemon-mint yoghurt dressing adds a creamy, tangy finish that ties every element together beautifully. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a comforting yet refreshing hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients are the heart and soul of this dish, each bringing its own unique texture, flavor, or splash of color. From the silky aubergine to the punchy spices and the bright zing of lemon, every component is essential in making this Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl unforgettable.

• Aubergine: Adds a rich, creamy texture when softened.
• Red onion: Offers sweetness and depth when cooked gently.
• Cherry or baby plum tomatoes: Provide juicy bursts of freshness.
• Zatar (or cumin): Infuses the salad with an aromatic Middle Eastern essence.
• Paprika: Lends a smoky warmth that balances the dish.
• Honey (or maple syrup/agave): A touch of sweetness that contrasts the spices.
• Baby salad leaves (or pan-fried kale): Offer a fresh, leafy crunch and vibrant color.
• Maldon salt: The perfect finishing salt for a delicate crunch and enhanced flavor.
• Green lentils (canned, drained, and rinsed): The protein-rich base that makes the salad hearty.
• Lemon zest: Brightens and lifts the overall taste with citrus notes.
• Plain yoghurt (or dairy-free alternative): Creamy element for the dressing that soothes and complements spices.
• Lemon juice: Adds fresh acidity to the dressing.
• Dried mint: Gives a subtle herbal coolness.
• Garlic clove: Adds a punch of savory depth to the dressing.

How to Make Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl

Step 1: Soften the Aubergine and Onion

Start by dicing the aubergine and slicing the red onion. Toss them into a frying pan with some olive oil and let them cook gently over medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for them to become tender and silky, which creates a lovely base for the rest of your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon-Mint Yoghurt Dressing

While your vegetables are cooking, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried mint, minced garlic, and yoghurt in a small dish. This dressing will add a delightful creamy brightness that perfectly contrasts the warm spices.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Once the onion and aubergine are soft, sprinkle in the zatar (or cumin), paprika, honey, and a pinch of Maldon salt. Stir everything well to ensure those lovely spices coat the veggies. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another couple of minutes until they soften and swell with heat, releasing their sweet juices.

Step 4: Mix in the Lentils

Now it’s time to add the green lentils. Since they’re already cooked, you just want to warm them through with the vegetable and spice mixture for about 2 minutes. This helps all the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 5: Combine with Salad Leaves

Remove the pan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then toss in your baby salad leaves or pan-fried kale. This adds a fresh, vibrant texture and balances the warm, spiced veggies wonderfully.

Step 6: Assemble the Salad Bowl

Transfer everything into serving bowls and generously drizzle the lemon-mint yoghurt dressing over the top. Give the bowl a final taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Now your Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl is ready to impress!

How to Serve Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or some crumbled feta can elevate this salad to the next level. Fresh herbs like parsley or extra dried mint offer a fragrant, fresh note that complements the spices perfectly. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving also adds a lovely silky finish.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread or flaky flatbreads to scoop up every bite. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or spiced halloumi for an exciting flavor combination. A simple bowl of roasted root vegetables would also work wonders here.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, layer the spiced lentil mixture and salad leaves in clear jars for a portable, on-the-go meal. Or, create a vibrant feast by serving each component separately and letting guests mix their own bowls. Mini lettuce cups filled with this salad also make fantastic finger food for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the yoghurt dressing separate and add it fresh before serving to maintain its bright, creamy texture.

Freezing

Because of the fresh salad leaves and dressing, freezing isn’t ideal for this dish. However, you can freeze the spiced lentil and vegetable mixture on its own for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh salad leaves and dressing when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat the lentil and vegetable mixture gently in a pan or microwave until warmed through. Once heated, toss in fresh salad leaves and top with freshly mixed yoghurt dressing to keep all the vibrant flavors alive.

FAQs

Can I use different types of lentils?

Absolutely! While green lentils hold their shape nicely and offer a pleasing texture here, brown or black beluga lentils work well too. Just ensure they are cooked but firm so they don’t become mushy in the salad.

What if I don’t have zatar?

No worries—cumin is a fantastic substitute and will still give your salad that warm, earthy depth. You can also experiment with a pinch of coriander or a little smoked paprika for variation.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes! Simply swap the yoghurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yoghurt and ensure your honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave. The salad will still be bursting with flavor.

How spicy is the Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl?

This salad is gently spiced with warm, aromatic flavors rather than heat. If you want to add a kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! Prepare the components ahead but keep the dressing and salad leaves separate until serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant. This makes your Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl a perfect make-ahead lunch or dinner option.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try the Spiced Lentil Salad Bowl, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that feels nourishing and exciting all at once, perfect for any season. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bowl full of spice, color, and joy!

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