Recipe Description
Beef & Lentil Salad by Chef Tahir Chaudhry is a hearty and nutritious dish combining tender beef strips with protein-rich lentils. Tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal or a light dinner.
Serving Details
- Servings: 4 people
- Serving Size: 1 bowl per person
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
Ingredients
- 250 g beef strips (cooked or grilled)
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 small cucumber (diced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Cook the lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside. If the beef is not pre-cooked, grill or pan-sear the strips until fully cooked.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, cumin powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, beef strips, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or lamb. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for the chosen meat.
What type of lentils work best for this salad?
Green or brown lentils work best as they hold their shape well and pair beautifully with the other ingredients.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to 6 hours in advance. Add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! You can include bell peppers, avocado, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad can be served as a standalone dish or paired with crusty bread or a side of rice for a complete meal.
