Big Green Lentil Salad

A hearty and nutritious salad featuring tender green lentils, creamy avocado, and fresh herbs, served over a turmeric-spiced yogurt sauce. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner side dish.

4 servings
38 min

Ingredients

  • cups green lentils
  • ¾ tsp kosher salt
  • 1⅓ cups plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • to taste black pepper
  • 1 cup unsalted roasted sunflower seeds
  • Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 whole ripe avocado
  • 1 cup baby arugula
  • 1 cup basil leaves
  • basil leaves

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Cook lentils in a large saucepan of simmering salted water until they are tender but still retain their shape, 20-30 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold running water, and drain well again.

    25 min

  2. 2.

    Mix yogurt, garlic, turmeric, 1/4 tsp. salt, and a generous grind of pepper in a small bowl to combine; set aside.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Toss lentils, sunflower seeds, lemon juice, 3 Tbsp. oil, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt in a large bowl. Gently fold in avocado, arugula, and basil.

    5 min

  4. 4.

    Spread reserved yogurt sauce across a platter and spoon lentil mixture on top; drizzle with oil.

    3 min