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Tahini Lemon Lentil Salad

This Tahini Lemon Lentil Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed meal that combines earthy lentils with a creamy, tangy tahini lemon dressing. Loaded with fresh vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty finish, this salad is hearty enough for lunch but light enough as a side dish. Ready in under 30 minutes and naturally vegan and gluten-free, it's perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a healthy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 0.5 red onion, finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 0.25 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • 0.33 cup tahini
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.25 cup water (more to thin)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp cumin (optional)

Equipment

  • medium pot
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk or jar with lid
  • cutting board and knife
  • colander

Method
 

  1. In a medium pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and let cool slightly.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin. The dressing will thicken as you mix. Add more water 1 tablespoon at a time until pourable.
  3. While lentils cook, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
  4. In a large bowl, combine warm lentils, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs.
  5. Pour the tahini lemon dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  6. Serve immediately at room temperature or refrigerate for 30 minutes to serve cold. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits.

Notes

Do not overcook lentils — they should be tender but hold their shape. Use warm lentils to absorb more dressing flavor. Thin tahini dressing with water until smooth and pourable. Make ahead for even better flavor. Taste and adjust salt and lemon before serving.