Lentil and Brown Rice Salad
Some days, you just need a recipe that you can put together in a few minutes – literally! This is that recipe. A few simple ingredients, healthy and wholesome and no fuss. It can keep for days in the fridge so perfect as side dish or a quick an easy meal to pack for lunch.
Lentil and Brown Rice Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1 cup raw french or puy lentils
- 1 red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 handful fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup flaked almonds
Method
- Boil brown rice for 30 minutes or until cooked (brown rice takes some time to cook and usually has a firm like consistency once cooked).
- Boil french lentils for 20 minutes or until cooked – you can use can lentils.
- Once cooked mix together the rice and lentils.
- Chop red onion finely and add to lentils and rice.
- Prepare the dressing by combining the olive oil, lemon juice and salt.
- Chop the parsley finely and then add to rice and lentils along with dressing. Mix well.
- Dry roast the almonds and then add to salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked or canned lentils to save time?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or canned lentils to save time in this recipe. Canned lentils are convenient and can be a great time-saver. Simply drain and rinse the canned lentils before adding them to the salad. If you choose to use pre-cooked lentils, you can follow the same instructions for boiling but reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use a different type of rice, such as white rice or basmati rice?
While brown rice is used in this recipe for its nutty flavour and added nutritional value, you can certainly use a different type of rice if you prefer. White rice or basmati rice will work well and have a shorter cooking time compared to brown rice. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose.
Is there a substitute for fresh parsley if I don't have it on hand?
Yes, if you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with other fresh herbs like cilantro (coriander) or dill, depending on your taste preference. Alternatively, you can use dried herbs, but keep in mind that the flavour intensity may be different, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
Can I add more vegetables to the salad for extra flavour and nutrition?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables. Tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or even roasted sweet potatoes can be excellent additions. These vegetables can provide extra flavour, texture, and nutritional value to the salad.
Can I make the dressing in advance and store it separately from the salad?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing in advance and store it separately from the salad. In fact, making the dressing ahead of time can allow the flavours to meld and enhance the overall taste of the salad. When you're ready to serve, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Can I make this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge?
Absolutely! This salad is great for making ahead and storing in the fridge. It can last for several days when properly stored in an airtight container. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or as a side dish for multiple meals throughout the week.
