o prepare the best green lentil salad, gather the following ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 3 cups water
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)

For the Lemon Dressing:

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

1. In a medium-sized pot, heat 3 cups of water until it reaches a rolling boil..
2. Add the green lentils and reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Cook for 18-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
4. Strain and rinse with cold water to quickly halt the cooking process.. Let them cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. While the lentils are cooling, dice the cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Chop the parsley and mint.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped vegetables, and herbs.
2. Pour the lemon dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
3. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.