Spicy Lentil Salad (Mercimek Salatası)

Mercimek Salatası, or Spicy Lentil Salad, is a traditional dish in Gagauz cuisine that is both nutritious and flavorful. This salad is easy to prepare and makes for a perfect side dish or light meal.

Spicy Lentil Salad (Mercimek Salatası)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a pot, bring the water to a boil and add the rinsed red lentils. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess water and let the lentils cool.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, red onion, red bell pepper, green chili, and fresh parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss to combine.
  4. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
35 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
150 per serving
Protein
8g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
5g

Supplies

Mixing bowl Whisk Pot

Tools

Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serve the Mercimek Salatası as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light lunch with some crusty bread.

Tips & tricks

For a milder version, remove the seeds from the green chili before chopping.

Cost

$8