Tangy Mustard Lentil Salad Dressing

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €3.10 · €0.77/serving

• 1 cup French green lentils (rinse and pick over before cooking for any debris)Est. price €1.20–€2.50
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus additional to adjust seasoningEst. price €0.02–€0.05
• 1 stalk celery with verdant leaves, sliced into 1/2-inch cubes (reserve some leaves for garnish)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
• 1 onion, quartered, and a half onion, finely dicedEst. price €0.30–€0.80
• 1 clove fresh garlic, peeled and minced (smash with the flat side of the knife for easy peeling)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1 fragrant bay leafEst. price €0.03–€0.08
• 2 teaspoons aromatic fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (strip leaves from stems before using)Est. price €0.15–€0.40
• 1 teaspoon tangy Dijon mustardEst. price €0.05–€0.12
• 1 tablespoon robust red-wine vinegarEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 2 tablespoons flavorful extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €0.25–€0.60

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water, making sure to remove any debris such as pebbles.

2. 2

   Begin by placing the lentils in a saucepan and covering them with water. Place the saucepan on medium heat and bring it to a boil. Stir in a teaspoon of salt, along with celery, quartered onion, garlic, bay leaf, and one teaspoon of fresh thyme. Let the lentils simmer without a lid for approximately 20 minutes until they are cooked al dente. Keep in mind that cooking times for lentils may vary. Once the lentils are done cooking and have cooled slightly, remove and discard the celery, onion, and bay leaf from the saucepan.

3. 3

   In a salad bowl, combine mustard, vinegar, oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Drain the warm lentils and add them to the vinaigrette. Mix in diced onion, parsley, and the remaining teaspoon of thyme. Toss all ingredients together until well combined.

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• Cultural note

  Lentils are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, including Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Mustard and vinegar-based dressings are commonly used in French cuisine, adding a tangy and flavorful element to salads. This dish combines influences from various culinary traditions.

• Seasonal note

  This Tangy Mustard Lentil Salad Dressing is perfect for all seasons as lentils are typically available year-round. However, fresh herbs like thyme and parsley are best enjoyed in the spring and summer.

• Health note

  This salad dressing is a nutritious choice, providing a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like A, C, and K. The dish is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it heart-healthy. The high fiber content can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy weight.