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–+ servings

Cherry Lentil Salad with Honey Balsamic Dressing

Katie Clack
Lentils bulk up this dish with lots of healthy protein and nutrients while summer fresh cherries add a sweetness that take this salad to a whole new level. 
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 5 mins
Course Salad
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Lentil Salad

  • 2 cups cooked lentils
  • 2 cups fresh arugula
  • 3/4 cup halved and pitted bing cherries
  • 1 1/2 cups asparagus, cut into 1" lengths
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded chicken (optional)
  • 1/2 cup goat cheese
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 pinch sea salt

Honey Balsamic Dressing

  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp avocado oil. Once the skillet is warm, add the prepped asparagus and sautee until al dente. You want to take the raw edge off without making it mushy. Season with a pinch of sea salt.
  • In the meantime, prep lentils as per the directions on the package. I recommend rinsing under cold water in a colander. If you're starting with dried lentils, rinse them first. Bring 3 cups of vegetable or chicken stock and 1 cup of dried lentils to a boil in a saucepan. Once water is boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until lentils are no longer crunchy, and are tender but not mushy. About 15-20 minutes depending on the variety of lentils you have. Drain excess water and let cool.
  • In a small tupperware container, add all the ingredients for the honey balsamic vinegar. Shake vigorously to emulsify the dressing and combine everything together.
  • In a large bowl, add the lentils, arugula, cherries, asparagus, and chicken if using. Dress lightly with the vinaigrette to taste. Add goat cheese just before serving and gently toss.

Notes

  • The best lentil varieties for a salad like this are French, black, brown or green.  
  • Buying a rotisserie chicken at the store and shredding it makes this recipe come together in a pinch!  Other great protein options are tuna and bacon.
  • If you don't have cherries, other good substitutes include red grapes or dried cherries.
Keyword cherry, lentils, salad
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