Shanxi-style Lentil Salad

Ingredients

In the original Mexican dish, Lentejas en ensalada, the lentils are typically cooked with Mexican spices and served as a warm dish. However, in this adapted Shanxi-style Lentil Salad, the lentils are cooked separately and then combined with fresh vegetables and a Shanxi-inspired dressing. The flavors are adjusted to suit the Shanxi cuisine, incorporating local spices and ingredients. We alse have the original recipe for Lentejas en ensalada, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (200g) lentils, cooked 1 cup (200g) lentils, cooked
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 carrot, grated 1 carrot, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, cucumber, carrot, red bell pepper, and green onion.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes (if using).
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the lentil mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. 4.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. 6.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lentils — Make sure to cook the lentils until they are tender but not mushy. Overcooked lentils can result in a mushy texture in the salad.
• Soy sauce — Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a less salty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For added crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top of the salad before serving.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference. You can add or substitute with ingredients like radishes, snow peas, or bean sprouts.
• Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice tolerance.

Serving advice

Serve the Shanxi-style Lentil Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. It pairs well with steamed rice or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or fish.

Presentation advice

Garnish the salad with some fresh cilantro leaves or thinly sliced green onions to add a pop of color. Serve it in a shallow bowl or on a platter to showcase the vibrant vegetables.