Description
A vibrant and hearty roasted carrot and lentil salad featuring caramelized carrots, tender French green lentils, and a zesty cumin-lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients
1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
1 cup French green lentils (Le Puy), rinsed
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (optional)
2 oz crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Toss the sliced carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Spread them in a single layer.
Step 3: Roast the carrots for 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are tender and have caramelized edges.
Step 4: While carrots roast, place lentils in a medium pot with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender but firm.
Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, the rest of the cumin, and honey to create the dressing for the roasted carrot and lentil salad.
Step 6: Drain the lentils and place them in a large mixing bowl. Toss with half of the dressing while still warm.
Step 7: Add the roasted carrots, fresh parsley, and remaining dressing to the bowl. Gently toss the roasted carrot and lentil salad to combine.
Step 8: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds and crumbled feta if using, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Using French green lentils is essential for maintaining the texture of the roasted carrot and lentil salad. They do not get mushy like brown or red lentils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sides & Salads
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg