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Lentil Salad with Tomato and Dill

This vibrant lentil salad with tomato and dill is an excellent choice for a nutritious vegan lunch or a refreshing side dish. By using small French style lentils, the salad maintains a pleasing bite that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, ripened tomatoes and the sharp kick of red-wine vinegar. The addition of fresh dill and basil brings an aromatic brightness to the earthy pulse base, making it a sophisticated yet simple dish to prepare during the warmer months.

High in plant-based protein and fibre, this heart-healthy salad is as practical as it is delicious. It can be enjoyed immediately while the lentils are slightly warm and have absorbed the herb-infused dressing, or chilled in the fridge to allow the flavours to develop further. Serve it alongside crusty sourdough bread or as part of a larger Mediterranean-style spread for a wholesome, homemade meal.

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Ingredients for Lentil Salad with Tomato and Dill

  • 240ml dried lentils (preferably small French lentils)

  • 1 large garlic clove, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

  • 350g tomatoes, diced (325g )

  • 4 large spring onions, thinly sliced (3/4 cup)

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil

  • 45ml red-wine vinegar, or to taste

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1/4 teaspoons black pepper

How to make Lentil Salad with Tomato and Dill

Bring 950ml water to a boil in a 2-quart heavy saucepan with lentils, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoons salt, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until lentils are just tender, 15 to 25 minutes. Drain in a large sieve, then transfer to a large bowl.

Toss hot lentils with tomatoes, spring onions, dill, basil, vinegar, oil, pepper, and remaining 1/2 teaspoons salt, or to taste.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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