OAA Plant-Based Recipe of the Month: Turkish Lentil Salad with Sweet Peppers and Herbs
There’s something deeply satisfying about a recipe that feels both nourishing and vibrant at the same time. This lentil salad is packed with fresh herbs, warming spices, roasted peppers, and a tangy dressing that only gets better as it sits. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but versatile enough to pair with grilled vegetables or warm pita.
Ingredients:
1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
kosher salt and ground pepper to taste
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp pomegranate molasses
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Aleppo peper or 1 tsp sweet paprika plus ½ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp ground sumac
¾ tsp ground cumin
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
1 Fresno chile, stemmed, seeded and thinly sliced
½ cup drained roasted red peppers, chopped into ½ inch pieces
½ cup lightly packed fresh mint, roughly chopped
½ cup lightly packed fresh dill, roughly chopped
Directions:
In a large saucepan, combine lentils, 5 cups of water, 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Bring to simmer over medium-high, then reduce to medium and simmer uncovered. Stirring occasionally until lentils are tender but still hold their shape. About 25 minutes.
Drain lentils in a colander and shake to remove as much water as possible. Transfer to a large bowl. Immediately add oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, Aleppo pepper, sumac, cumin and ¼ tsp salt and black pepper. Cool to room temperature, stirring once or twice. Add onion, Fresno chile, roasted peppers, mint and dill. Gently toss. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Serves 4 to 6.
A Note on Compassionate Eating
At OAA, we believe food can be both delicious and kind. Choosing plant-based meals like this one helps reduce the demand for factory-farmed animal products and supports a more compassionate food system. Every small choice adds up and yes, that includes your Tuesday night pasta.
Learn More About the Bigger Impact
Our food choices don’t just affect animals—they also affect the planet we share. Industrial animal agriculture is one of the leading drivers of climate change, deforestation, and water pollution. To explore how compassionate eating supports a healthier environment for all, visit our Advocacy page on Climate Change.
Let us know if you try this recipe by tagging us on social media. Happy cooking!
Source: Milk Street
