Name: French Lentil Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489163H59M12S
Total time: PT-489163H59M12S
Cuisine: French‑Inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup French green lentils (or brown/green lentils); 3 cups chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 large carrot, finely diced; 2 celery ribs, finely diced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried); 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon); ¼ cup extra‑virgin olive oil; 3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

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Short Description

A zesty and satisfying salad featuring tender lentils tossed with vegetables, fresh herbs, and a bright lemon-Dijon vinaigrette—finished with creamy goat cheese for a flavorful and nourishing side or main.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutritious classic with protein-packed lentils and fresh veggies
Bright and tangy flavors from herbs, lemon, and mustard
Tends to hold well, making it ideal for prep-ahead meals
Creamy goat cheese adds richness without overwhelming
Versatile as a salad, side, or light entrée

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup French green lentils (or brown/green lentils)
3 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 large carrot, finely diced
2 celery ribs, finely diced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (high quality, e.g. Lucini or Colavita)
3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled

Directions

Rinse lentils thoroughly and remove any debris. In a saucepan, combine lentils, chicken broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until lentils are tender—about 25–30 minutes for French lentils or 20–25 minutes for common brown/green lentils.
Remove the bay leaf, drain, and allow lentils to cool at least 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together carrot, celery, thyme, parsley, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Add cooled lentils and toss gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer salad to a serving dish, sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over top, and serve.

Servings And Timing

Servings: Serves 4 as a side or 2–3 as a light main
Prep Time: ~10 minutes
Cook Time: ~25–30 minutes
Cooling Time: ~10 minutes
Total Time: ~45–50 minutes

Variations

Vegan: Substitute goat cheese with crumbled tofu or omit and use chopped avocado or vegan feta.
Herb swap: Use fresh dill, chives, or basil for a different aromatic profile.
Add-ins: Stir in chopped roasted peppers, roasted beets, or diced avocado for variety.
Different lentils: Green lentils hold shape well; brown lentils give a softer texture.
Grain mix: Blend in cooked quinoa or barley for added chew and nutrients.

Storage / Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best flavor, the dressing may be added later if keeping longer.
Reheating: Serve cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed. If preferred warm, gently reheat just the lentils and toss with dressing and cheese afterward.

FAQs

1. Can I use different lentils?

Yes—brown, green, or Puy lentils work. Adjust cooking time depending on variety.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes—simply omit the goat cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

3. Is it okay to use vinegar instead of lemon juice?

Yes—substitute white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different acidic note.

4. Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely—prepare lentils and dressing separately, toss together before serving, and add cheese at the last minute.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes—feel free to add diced bell pepper, cucumber, or roasted root vegetables.

6. How to adjust sweetness?

Increase honey slightly or add a pinch of maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter balance.

7. Can I replace poultry broth?

Yes—use vegetable broth or water with a splash of vinegar for vegetarian/vegan options.

8. What if lentils become mushy?

French lentils maintain structure; avoid overcooking common lentils by checking early.

9. How long does it hold?

Best fresh but stays flavorful in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid adding goat cheese until serving if making ahead.

10. What pairs well with this salad?

Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or as part of a mezze platter.

Conclusion

This French Lentil Salad combines tender lentils with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and tangy dressing—finished with creamy goat cheese for a balanced and elegant dish. Healthful, flavorful, and make-ahead friendly, it’s perfect as a side, lunch, or vegetarian main.

Maggie