Lush Lentil and Kale Salad

Name: Lush Lentil and Kale Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 4 cups kale, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, diced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Eating Recipes

I absolutely love making this Lush Lentil and Kale Salad! The combination of earthy lentils, vibrant kale, and zesty dressing creates a delightful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. Preparing this salad is a breeze and it’s perfect as a light lunch or a hearty side. I often find myself making it in advance to enjoy as meal prep during the week. Each bite is filled with nutrients and flavors that keep me feeling energized and vibrant throughout the day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:17:30.621Z

When I first tried my hand at this Lush Lentil and Kale Salad, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create something so flavorful. The trick lies in the perfect balance of the dressing, which I always tweak to my taste by adding a dash of lemon for that extra zing. The chewy lentils mixed with tender kale make for a great texture that I can't resist.

I love that this salad can be made ahead of time; the flavors only develop more as it sits! Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. It’s a go-to recipe for gatherings, and everyone always asks for the recipe. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be making it regularly!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Nutrient-rich ingredients for a health boost
Deliciously inspired by seasonal flavors
Versatile enough for any meal, warm or cold

      

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of lentils plays a significant role in the texture and flavor of this salad. I prefer using green or French lentils because they hold their shape better during cooking and provide a nice chewy contrast to the tender kale. Additionally, they pack a punch of protein and fiber, making this salad not only delicious but also satisfying. If you're in a pinch, canned lentils can work, but make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess sodium.

Kale is the star green in this salad, and its heartiness makes it ideal for salad applications, even when dressed in advance. When selecting kale, look for deep green leaves without any yellowing or wilting. If you want a less bitter flavor, I recommend using Lacinato (dinosaur) kale, which tends to be sweeter and softer than curly varieties. Remember to destem the leaves, as the stems are tough and fibrous.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The dressing for this salad is simple yet impactful. The red wine vinegar adds acidity that brightens the earthy flavors of the lentils and kale. When whisking the dressing, aim for a smooth and slightly emulsified texture, which will better coat the salad and help balance the flavors. You can easily adjust the tanginess by adding more or less vinegar to suit your taste preferences. If you're out of red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar can serve as a delightful substitute.

The Dijon mustard not only adds flavor but also acts as an emulsifier, helping the olive oil and vinegar blend seamlessly. If you're sensitive to mustard, you can reduce the quantity or swap it with a splash of lemon juice for a citrusy twist. Just remember that adjusting the ingredients may affect the overall flavor balance, so taste as you go.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Lush Lentil and Kale Salad

1 cup cooked lentils
4 cups kale, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, diced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your preferred ingredients to make it your own!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect preparation:

Prepare the Lentils

Rinse and drain the lentils. Add them to a pot with double the amount of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 20 minutes, until tender. Drain excess water and set aside to cool.

Combine the Greens

In a large bowl, combine the chopped kale and diced red onion. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and massage the kale to soften it, about 2 minutes.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.

Assemble the Salad

Add the lentils, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese to the kale mixture. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine all ingredients evenly.

Enjoy this colorful salad as a main dish or side!

Pro Tips

For added protein, you can toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas. Adjust the dressing to your preference for a tangier flavor or a creamier texture by adding yogurt.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about this Lush Lentil and Kale Salad is that it can be made ahead of time for meal prep. I often prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld for even more depth. Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days, but keep in mind that the kale may lose some of its crispness over time. To revive it, simply toss in a bit of fresh olive oil just before serving.

If you're planning to store leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy and maintains the kale's texture. When ready to enjoy, drizzle the dressing over your portion and mix. It's an easy way to keep everything fresh and vibrant!

Serving Suggestions

This salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a heartier meal, try adding grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas on top for extra protein. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a more filling option. If you're looking to enhance the flavors further, a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds right before serving adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

I love incorporating seasonal ingredients for added freshness. In the summer, consider mixing in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a refreshing twist. In the fall or winter, adding roasted butternut squash or apple slices can enhance the sweetness and make the dish more comforting. Don't hesitate to experiment with different toppings according to your preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for lentils?

Quinoa or chickpeas can be excellent substitutes for lentils if you're looking for a different texture or flavor.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to make it a more complete meal.