Lentil-Chickpea Salad

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A protein-packed salad with equal parts cooked lentils and chickpeas, tossed in a lemon-herb dressing. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegetarian, high-protein) ready in about 15 minutes pairs cooked brown lentils, cooked chickpeas, cucumber into a side that holds its own next to almost any main — bright, balanced, and quick enough to slot into a weeknight plate. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 2, so it slots cleanly next to roasted proteins, grain bowls, or weeknight mains. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.5 (10 ratings) Prep: 15 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup cooked brown lentils, 1 cup cooked chickpeas, 1/2 cup diced cucumber, and 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion.
  2. Step 2: Whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  3. Step 3: Pour dressing over salad ingredients and toss gently until evenly coated.
  4. Step 4: Chill for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Lentil-Chickpea Salad take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Lentil-Chickpea Salad?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep cooked brown lentils from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Lentil-Chickpea Salad?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Lentil-Chickpea Salad for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Lentil-Chickpea Salad vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, high-protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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