Description
Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil is a refreshing and nutritious dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of summer. This delightful salad combines protein-rich lentils, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all enhanced by fragrant basil and a zesty vinaigrette. Perfect as a standalone meal or served as a versatile side at barbecues and picnics, this salad not only pleases the palate but also makes meal prep easy. With its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients, it’s sure to impress your guests while keeping you feeling satisfied.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green lentils
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels
- 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces mini mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red apple vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed/finely minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the vinaigrette by combining olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a jar. Shake well and set aside.
- Rinse lentils under cool water. In a medium saucepan, boil 4 cups of water. Add lentils and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and season with salt.
- Crisp prosciutto in a pan over medium heat until browned. Set aside on paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine lentils, corn, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil leaves. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an hour for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish/Salad
- Method: Mixing/Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg