Rustic German Lentil Salad with Herb Vinaigrette
This hearty German Lentil Salad, or Linsensalat, is a delightful dish that combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the freshness of parsley and the sweetness of carrots. Inspired by traditional recipes and perfect for any season, this salad is not only nutritious but also versatile, making it an ideal accompaniment for grilled meats or a standalone entrée. The homemade herb vinaigrette, infused with mustard and vinegar, brings a zesty note that ties all the ingredients together beautifully. Perfect for a light lunch, potluck, or as a side dish, this salad is sure to impress your family and guests alike!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
small lentils
250 g (rinsed and cooked)
medium carrot
1 (finely chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (minced)
parsley
1 bunch (finely chopped)
olive oil
7.5 tablespoons (divided (1/2 tablespoon for sautéing, 7 tablespoons for vinaigrette))
vinegar
2 tablespoons (preferably white or apple cider vinegar)
white wine
2 tablespoons (optional)
mustard
2 tablespoons (preferably Dijon or your favorite type)
cinnamon
1 pinch (ground)
sugar
1 teaspoon (granulated)
pepper
1 teaspoon (freshly ground)
salt
to taste (used for cooking lentils and seasoning)
Instructions
1
Rinse the lentils under cold water, then cook them in a pot of salted boiling water for approximately 20 minutes, or until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside to cool.
2
While the lentils are cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, white wine, mustard, cinnamon, sugar, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined.
3
In a frying pan over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped carrot and minced garlic until the carrot is tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed carrot and garlic, and finely chopped parsley. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated.
5
Season the salad with salt to taste and let it rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rustic German Lentil Salad?
This is a hearty traditional dish, also known as Linsensalat, that combines earthy lentils with fresh parsley, carrots, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette.
What are the primary ingredients for this salad?
The main ingredients include small lentils, carrots, garlic, parsley, olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and spices like cinnamon and sugar.
How long does it take to cook the lentils?
The lentils should be boiled in salted water for approximately 20 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
What type of lentils are best for this recipe?
Small lentils are recommended as they hold their shape well after cooking.
How do I make the herb vinaigrette?
Combine olive oil, vinegar, white wine, mustard, cinnamon, sugar, and pepper in a jar and shake vigorously until well mixed.
Is this lentil salad recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Can I substitute the white wine in the dressing?
Yes, the white wine is optional and can be omitted or replaced with a bit of extra vinegar or water.
How should the carrots be prepared?
The carrots should be finely chopped and then sautéed with minced garlic until tender and slightly caramelized.
How much olive oil is needed for the entire recipe?
You will need a total of 7.5 tablespoons: 0.5 tablespoons for sautéing and 7 tablespoons for the vinaigrette.
What kind of mustard works best for the dressing?
Dijon mustard is preferred, though you can use any of your favorite mustard varieties.
Why is there cinnamon in the recipe?
A pinch of ground cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and unique depth of flavor to the traditional German dressing.
How long should the salad rest before serving?
It is recommended to let the salad rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
What is the best temperature to serve this salad?
This salad is best served at room temperature to highlight the flavors of the vinaigrette.
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar is an excellent choice for this salad's dressing.
Is the garlic raw or cooked?
The garlic is minced and sautéed with the carrots to soften its flavor.
How do I ensure the lentils don't become mushy?
Cook them for about 20 minutes and check frequently; you want them to be tender but still have a slight bite.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, making it ahead of time can actually improve the flavor as the lentils soak up the vinaigrette.
What are some serving suggestions for this dish?
It works perfectly as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled meats, or brought to a potluck.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 12 ingredients total, including the pantry staples for the dressing.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is classified as an easy recipe that involves simple boiling, sautéing, and mixing.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Fresh parsley is highly recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried parsley in a smaller amount if necessary.
How should I store leftover lentil salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely; you could add diced celery, onions, or bell peppers for extra crunch.
What makes this salad 'Rustic'?
The use of simple, whole ingredients and traditional German preparation methods gives it a hearty, rustic character.
How much salt should I use?
Salt should be added to the water when boiling the lentils and then used to season the final salad to your personal taste.
Can I use honey instead of sugar in the dressing?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar in the vinaigrette.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I garnish the salad?
Garnish with a handful of additional finely chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
Is this a healthy recipe?
Yes, it is a nutritious dish high in fiber and plant-based protein from the lentils.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the quantities to serve a larger group.