Spiced Herbed Lentil Salad With Avocado Recipes

LENTIL SALAD

Steps:

• Combine the lentils in a saucepan with 3 cups of water (or veggie broth) and stir to combine. Cook over medium-high heat until the broth reaches a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and maintain the simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes depending on the type of lentils used. Use a strainer to drain and rinse the lentils in cold water for 1 minute until they are chilled, and set aside.
• Meanwhile, as the lentils are cooking, combine all of the lemon dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together until combined.
• Add the cooked and chilled lentils, cucumber, red onion, mint and sun-dried tomatoes to a large bowl. Drizzle evenly with the lemon dressing and toss until evenly combined.
• Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days.

AVOCADO SALAD WITH HERBS AND CAPERS

Steps:

• Reserve a cup of whole cilantro leaves; finely chop the rest of the leaves and tender stems. Transfer chopped leaves to a medium bowl.
• Reserve a cup of whole parsley leaves; finely chop the rest of the leaves and tender stems. Transfer chopped parsley to the bowl with the cilantro. Add scallions, jalapeño, garlic, fine salt and vinegar. Stir in oil. Taste and add more salt, vinegar or both, if needed.
• Scatter the whole cilantro and parsley leaves over 4 serving plates. Fan the avocados out on top, and sprinkle lightly with fine salt to taste. Spoon the herb dressing over the avocado, making sure to include the oil in the bowl, and top with capers. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and black pepper and serve.

LENTIL AVOCADO SALAD

Steps:

• In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over medium heat. Add the celery, carrots and onions, and sweat for 5 minutes while stirring. Add the lentils and cover with 2 inches of water. Stir in the bay leaf and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes. Drain and season with salt and pepper. Discard the bay leaf and cool.
• While the lentils are cooking, make the vinaigrette. Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, agave, red pepper, lemon juice and zest and some salt and pepper. Slowly stream in 3 tablespoons oil while continuously whisking. Pour the vinaigrette over the cooled lentils then fold in the diced avocado and cranberries. Pour into a bowl, garnish with the chopped parsley and serve.