Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe (CAVA Copycat)

If you love fresh, vibrant Mediterranean dishes—you’ll love this recipe! My Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe is a delicious copycat version of the popular CAVA dish. A hearty black lentil salad, with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers, all tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing. This salad is so refreshing, protein-packed, and satisfying—perfect if you want a healthier twist on traditional tabbouleh.🌿🥒

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How to Make Lentil Tabbouleh Salad

Ingredients

• 1 Cup Black Lentils
• 5 Roma Tomatoes diced
• 1 Large English Cucumber diced
• ½ Red Onion diced
• 1 Cup Fresh Parsley chopped
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Dill chopped
• 2 Lemons juiced
• 2 Cloves Garlic minced
• 1 Teaspoon Salt & Pepper

Step-By-Step Instructions to Make Lentil Tabbouleh Salad

Rinse 1 cup of black lentils thoroughly. Add them to a pot with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and allow the lentils to cool. While the lentils cook, you can chop, dice, and prepare all of your other ingredients.

Once cooled, combine the cooked lentils with the Roma tomatoes, English cucumber, red onion, fresh parsley, and fresh dill. Dress the mixture with the lemon juice, garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine & Enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

If you're into Mediterranean flavors or love recreating restaurant-style dishes at home, this Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe is a must-try. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and plant-based, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. The black lentils provide a hearty base, offering both protein and fiber, while the fresh veggies and herbs brighten up the dish, giving it a burst of flavor with every bite.

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes and makes a perfect meal on its own or as a side dish with grilled chicken, lamb, or falafel. The best part? It only gets better as it sits, so leftovers taste even more delicious!

What Makes This Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe Special?

Nutrient-Rich: Black lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in protein, fiber, iron, and folate. They make this dish more filling than traditional bulgur-based tabbouleh.

Vibrant and Fresh: The combination of fresh herbs like parsley and dill with juicy tomatoes and crisp cucumbers gives this salad an unmistakably refreshing Mediterranean taste.

Meal Prep Perfection: This recipe stores wonderfully in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. It’s perfect for a quick grab-and-go lunch or dinner side dish.

Diet-Friendly: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, vegan, and full of plant-based goodness, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

What Is Best Served with Lentil Tabbouleh?

This Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish, or part of a larger feast, there are plenty of ways to serve this flavorful salad!

Grilled Proteins: Lentil Tabbouleh makes a wonderful side dish to grilled chicken, lamb, or beef kebabs. The smoky, charred flavors from the grill complement the fresh, tangy notes of the salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. If you're plant-based, try serving it alongside grilled tofu or tempeh for a hearty, vegan-friendly option.

Falafel and Hummus: For a classic Mediterranean spread, serve your Lentil Tabbouleh with crispy falafel and creamy hummus. The salad's freshness cuts through the richness of the falafel, while hummus adds a smooth and savory element to the meal. Add some pita bread, and you’ve got a perfect combo for dipping and scooping.

Mediterranean Mezze Platter: Lentil Tabbouleh is a great addition to a mezze platter. Pair it with other small plates like baba ganoush, tzatziki, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), and olives!

Grain Bowls: For a complete, balanced meal, you can serve Lentil Tabbouleh over a bed of grains like quinoa, farro, or couscous. Top it with roasted vegetables, a dollop of hummus, and a protein of your choice for a nutrient-packed Mediterranean grain bowl.

With so many serving options, Lentil Tabbouleh Salad is a true crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into a variety of meals. Whether you're planning a Mediterranean-inspired dinner or a simple weeknight meal, this salad offers a flavorful and nutritious side that everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions?

Can I make Lentil Tabbouleh Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Lentil Tabbouleh Salad is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have a chance to meld together. You can prepare it up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I cook lentils for Lentil Tabbouleh Salad?
To cook lentils for this recipe, rinse and add them to a pot with water at a 1:3 ratio. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Drain any excess water and allow to cool before adding them to the salad.

Can I use different types of lentils in this Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe?
Yes! While black lentils are recommended for their firm texture and deep flavor, you can substitute them with green or brown lentils if needed. Just be aware that red lentils tend to break down more easily and may not hold up as well in the salad.

Is Lentil Tabbouleh Salad gluten-free?
Yes! This Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free, unlike traditional tabbouleh which uses bulgur wheat.

How long does Lentil Tabbouleh Salad last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Lentil Tabbouleh Salad will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Lentil Tabbouleh Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe because the fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers may lose their texture once thawed.

Is Lentil Tabbouleh Salad vegan?
Yes, this Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe is completely plant-based and vegan. It’s a great option for those following a vegan diet, providing plenty of protein and fiber from the lentils while keeping it light and refreshing with the veggies and herbs.

Enjoy the Lentil Tabbouleh Salad

This Lentil Tabbouleh Salad Recipe is a fresh, healthy, and satisfying dish that you'll want to make on repeat. It’s full of protein and vibrant flavors! This makes it an easy weeknight meal, topping on Mediterranean bowls, or side for entertaining. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s the perfect recipe for those who love Mediterranean flavors without a lot of work. Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy 🌿