Embark on a culinary journey with this vibrant and healthful salad, blending the earthy goodness of lentils with the crunch of red cabbage, all enlivened by a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups dry lentils, cooked in vegetable broth
- 3 carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 3 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced (packed)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 2 tsp za’atar seasoning
- Salt and garlic powder for cooking
- Fresh parsley or herbs of choice for garnish (optional)
For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp agave or maple syrup
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
Method:
- Cooking the Lentils: In a saucepan, combine lentils with vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a low simmer, covered, until lentils are al dente. Be mindful not to overcook. Drain any excess liquid and spread the lentils on a baking tray to cool.
- Preparing the Onions: Heat a skillet with 1 tbsp oil. Add onions, season with salt and garlic powder, and cook until translucent. If the mixture starts drying out, add a bit of vegetable broth. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook until the onions are slightly browned.
- Sautéing Carrots and Cabbage: In another skillet, sauté carrots with a touch of oil and broth for 3-5 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then transfer to a plate. Add cabbage to the pan, season with salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, parsley, and a bit more oil. Cook until wilted and slightly browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Assembling the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the lentils, onions, carrots, and cabbage. Add olives, za’atar seasoning, and some of the lemon vinaigrette. Toss well. (You may have leftover dressing.)
- Final Touches: Adjust the flavor with more lemon juice or garlic powder as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs.
Serve this Red Cabbage Salad as a refreshing and nutritious dish, perfect for any meal. The blend of textures and flavors will surely delight your palate!
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