Ethiopian Lentil Salad

Recipe

Ethiopian Lentil Salad

Spiced Lentil Delight: A Flavorful Ethiopian Salad

This recipe is a delightful Ethiopian Lentil Salad, known as Azifa. It is a traditional dish from Ethiopian cuisine that combines cooked lentils with aromatic spices and tangy flavors.

Jan Dec

15 minutes

N/A (since the lentils are already cooked)

45 minutes (including marinating time)

4 servings

Easy

Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free

Garlic

Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein, Soy-free

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cumin powder, turmeric powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. 2.
    In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic.
  3. 3.
    Pour the dressing over the lentils and toss gently to coat.
  4. 4.
    Add the chopped cilantro or parsley and mix well.
  5. 5.
    Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. 6.
    Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Lentils — Make sure to cook the lentils until they are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can result in mushy lentils, which may affect the texture of the salad.

Tips & Tricks

  • For added crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts on top of the salad before serving.
  • Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference. If you prefer a spicier salad, you can increase the amount of paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • If you don't have fresh cilantro or parsley, you can substitute with fresh mint or basil for a different flavor profile.
  • Make a larger batch of the salad and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and healthy lunch option throughout the week.
  • Serve the Ethiopian Lentil Salad with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or alongside other Ethiopian dishes for a complete and authentic meal experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Ethiopian Lentil Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or as a light meal on its own. It pairs well with injera (Ethiopian flatbread) or can be enjoyed alongside other Ethiopian dishes for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Ethiopian Lentil Salad with a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color. Serve it in a vibrant bowl or on a platter to showcase the beautiful colors of the lentils and herbs.