Description
Summer Lentil Salad with Corn, Tomatoes, Mozzarella & Basil is a refreshing and nutritious dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This vibrant salad is brimming with protein-packed lentils, sweet corn, luscious tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all elevated by fragrant basil and a zesty vinaigrette. Ideal for picnics, BBQs, or as a satisfying lunch, it can be served as a standalone meal or a delightful side. The addition of crispy prosciutto adds an irresistible crunch that makes every bite memorable. Whip up this easy recipe in just 35 minutes and enjoy the fresh flavors of summer!
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1 cup green lentils
- 2 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (cooked & sliced from the cob)
- 2 cups grape OR cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered)
- 8 ounces mini fresh mozzarella balls (ciliegine sized)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (sliced in a chiffonade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Make the vinaigrette: Combine olive oil, red apple vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a jar; shake well.
- Cook lentils: Rinse lentils under cool water. Boil 4 cups of water in a saucepan; add lentils and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
- Crisp prosciutto: In a frying pan over medium heat, cook prosciutto until crispy on both sides; transfer to paper towels to drain.
- Assemble salad: In a large bowl, mix cooked lentils, corn kernels, sliced tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and basil. Drizzle with vinaigrette and toss gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No cooking (mostly assembly)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: For added flavor, let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving. Feel free to customize by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or substituting mozzarella with feta cheese.