Nutritious High Protein Lentil Salad Recipe
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This high protein lentil salad is full of healthy ingredients. It includes quinoa, brown rice, and edamame beans. Lentils, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and carrot add crunch and flavor. Cucumber, spinach, and roasted seeds make it fresh and nutritious.
The creamy tahini dressing makes it tasty, adding protein and healthy fats. You can enjoy it as a main meal or a side. It’s great for any diet or when planning meals.
Ingredients and Directions
Creating a delicious high-protein lentil salad is simple. It combines lentils, quinoa, edamame beans, chickpeas, and more. This mix creates a satisfying and flavorful salad, perfect for many occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup brown rice, cooked
- 1 cup edamame beans, soaked in hot water
- 1 cup lentils, cooked
- 1 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted seeds (such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds)
Directions:
- Cook quinoa and brown rice by following the instructions on their packages.
- Soak edamame beans in hot water for 5 minutes. Remember to drain them after.
- Combine the cooked quinoa, brown rice, edamame beans, lentils, chickpeas, red bell pepper, carrot, cucumber, spinach, and roasted seeds in a large bowl.
- Mix these dressing ingredients until they’re creamy:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon miso paste
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sambal oelek (optional for extra spice)
This high-protein lentil salad is easy to make and very nutritious. Each serving has about 165 calories and offers fats, fiber, and iron. It’s a fantastic choice for people wanting to add more protein to their diet.
You can make this salad even more delicious. Try adding cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, olives, and feta cheese. Customize it as you like.
For more lentil salad ideas, visit these websites: Green Healthy Cooking, Cooking for Peanuts, and Recipe Runner.
Now you know the ingredients and steps, go ahead and make your own high-protein lentil salad. Enjoy!
Benefits of High Protein Lentil Salad
This high protein lentil salad isn’t just tasty. It’s also full of health benefits of lentil salad and nutrition in lentil salad. Lentils are amazing for their plant-based protein, giving you about 18 grams per cooked cup. They boost your fiber intake too, aiding digestion and keeping you full.
The salad is rich in vitamins and minerals thanks to the veggies. You get vitamin C from red bell peppers and spinach, and vitamin A from carrots. These ingredients not only add beautiful colors but also pack the salad with nutrients.
“The high protein content in lentil salad supplies essential amino acids. These are the building blocks of protein. They help with muscle growth and repair, perfect for those looking to bulk up or maintain muscle.”
This salad mix of lentils and veggies offers a spectrum of nutrients for your health. Lentils are a reliable source of iron, crucial for oxygen transport in your body. They’re also rich in folate, key for cell growth and development.
Not to forget, the salad includes a delicious tahini dressing. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, brings in more protein and healthy fats. These fats are good for absorbing vitamins and giving you energy that lasts.
In sum, this high protein lentil salad is a wholesome and satisfying meal. It’s great for anyone wanting more protein while enjoying health perks. Enjoy benefits like muscle gain, better digestion, and a host of vital nutrients.
Benefits of High Protein Lentil Salad at a Glance
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
High Protein Content | Lentils provide nearly 18 grams of protein per cooked cup, supporting muscle growth and repair. |
Fiber-Rich | The salad’s fiber content aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. |
Vitamin and Mineral Boost | The variety of vegetables in the salad provide essential vitamins and minerals for overall health. |
Healthy Fats | The tahini dressing adds healthy fats, improving nutrient absorption and providing sustained energy. |
Conclusion
This nutritious lentil salad is not just tasty but also packed with protein. It’s filled with fresh vegetables, hearty lentils, and a zesty dressing. It’s great for any meal plan.
The recipe is quick to make, perfect for those with busy schedules. It makes four servings, so you can have leftovers for later.
This salad blends red onions, carrots, and candy beet for a mix of flavors. The creamy tahini dressing boosts its protein and healthy fats. It’s a wonderful contrast of textures and tastes.
It’s a top pick whether you’re on a special diet or just want more plant-based protein. Give this high protein lentil salad a try. Discover its amazing flavor and health perks for yourself.
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FAQ
Can I make substitutions or additions to the salad ingredients?
Yes, customize the salad as you like. Feel free to add or swap veggies, grains, or legumes. Pick what suits your taste and needs.
How long can I store the leftover salad in the fridge?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Remember to add dressing just before you eat to keep it fresh.
Can I use a different dressing for the salad?
Absolutely! While creamy tahini dressing is tasty, pick any dressing you love. Try out various dressings to discover your best match.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan or vegetarian diet?
Yes, this high-protein lentil salad fits vegan and vegetarian diets well. With protein from lentils, chickpeas, and edamame, it is both healthy and filling.
Can I make this salad ahead of time for meal prep?
Definitely! This salad is great for meal prep. Just prepare salad parts and dressing ahead. Mix them when you’re ready to eat for a quick, healthy meal.