Lentils, Black Beans, Goat Cheese and Baby Green Salad

Lentils, black beans, goat cheese, and baby green salad. It’s a refreshing summer salad that is light and super delicious. A must-try!

Traveling is an open adventure, not only in visiting new places but also in learning new dishes. I discovered this wonderful salad on our trips to Warsaw, Poland.

Warsaw, Poland, is a beautiful town, and while strolling and taking it all in, we stumbled upon this fantastic restaurant. You would have never known it was a restaurant without looking around you.

A large cobblestone porch leads us into this beautiful backyard with many romantically set up tables.

I am saddened that I cannot find the name of the place to share with all of you.

Our dinner was fantastic. I remember how much I enjoyed this salad and could not wait to make it in my own kitchen.

Of course, I asked the chef for the recipe, but he never separated himself from it, so I deconstructed the flavors and jotted them down on my cell phone, promising to make it in my kitchen.

In this Article

A super simple vegetarian recipe

Light, vegetarian, healthy recipe, and so easy to prepare. Another great attribute to this great recipe: is low carb. How great is that?

I used crimson lentils because I had them on hand, and they required less time to cook.

If you choose to substitute the lentils, remember that red lentils take less time to cook because they are hulled; therefore, adjust this recipe timing to the lentils of your choosing.

Lentils are an excellent source of protein, rich in folate, and low in calories.

Low in sodium and saturated fat, making it a very healthy vegetable to enjoy and add to our diet.

Black beans contain fibers, proteins, and antioxidants, all the critical ingredients for a good source of nutrition.

No salt is used by choice. In regards to the cheese, goat cheese is excellent with it.

However, you can also use feta cheese if you have it on hand. I have made it both ways and delicious either way.

Let’s talk crimson lentils and black beans

What are crimson lentils?

Also known as Petite crimson lentils, they are shelled, lens-shaped legumes known for their quick cooking ability, making them perfect on a busy weeknight.

High in protein content, deep orange to red color. Mild and buttery when cooked.

If overcooked, it makes for a great soup, stews, dips, or puree.

Tender lentils that are rich in flavor and just need a quick simmering and are ready to be enjoyed.

Black beans

They are very nutritious, gluten-free, vegan, and high in both protein and fiber. They are also loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

The recipe is for 2. You can serve it on individual or large plates for a simple light dinner. Or, of course, augment the portions via the serving size tab on the recipe card below.

A playfulness between light, sweet, and pungent and brought together by a dash of olive oil.

Step by step on how to make this easy lentil, black bean, goat cheese salad

There is nothing to it to this salad, and as always, I recommend having all the ingredients ready before assembling it.

• Start by rinsing the lentils and soak them for 10 minutes. Rinse and boil on salted water for a couple of minutes. Remove from the heat and let them rest for another few minutes.
  Drain and rinse in cold water.

• Rinse your salad and purple radish sprouts.

• On a large serving plate or simple servings, arrange the salad, add the lentils and black beans, pieces of goat cheese, and purple radish.

• Drizzle some vinegar and olive oil, and enjoy!

When can you enjoy this wonderful salad?

Summer is just around the corner, with two significant holidays aligned; this salad is the perfect dish for all your pool parties, picnics, potlucks, and BBQs, as it stores well and needs a few last-minute assemblies.

Keep it chill until you are ready to assemble it, and enjoy.

It is perfect as a light dinner or can be served as a side dish.

Variations

I would suggest trying this recipe as I have it here first, and then have fun and can play with the flavors by adding the below, or create your version.

• Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, or lemon juice are great substitutes for vinegar.

• Add some finely chopped parsley over it.

• Finely chopped red bell peppers, small tiny cubes add a bit of color and flavor.

• And, lastly, for a touch of freshness, some tiny chopped cucumbers.

Storing

Your salad can be stored in an airtight glass container for up to three days.

Frequently Asked Questions