What to Serve With Lentil Salad – 15 Best Sides

What to Serve With Lentil Salad, you ask?

As I sit down to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful lentil salad, my mind starts buzzing with the question: what should I serve alongside this delicious dish?

Luckily, I’ve compiled a list of the 15 best sides that perfectly complement the earthy flavors of lentils.

From roasted vegetables to juicy grilled chicken, tangy citrus vinaigrette to refreshing avocado and tomato salad, this article will guide you in creating a harmonious symphony of flavors for your next meal.

So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect accompaniments for your lentil salad feast!

Roasted Vegetables

You can pair your lentil salad with some delicious roasted vegetables.

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a flavorful and crispy touch to any meal.

I love to roast a medley of colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.

I simply toss them in olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, and pop them in the oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

The combination of the earthy lentils and the smoky roasted vegetables is pure perfection.

The vegetables add a burst of freshness and texture to the salad, making it a well-rounded and satisfying dish.

Quinoa Pilaf

One great option to pair with a lentil salad is a quinoa pilaf. Quinoa is a versatile grain that adds a nutty flavor and a satisfying texture to any dish.

To make a quinoa pilaf, I start by cooking quinoa in vegetable broth until it’s fluffy and tender. Then, I sauté some onions and garlic in olive oil until they’re golden brown and fragrant.

Next, I add the cooked quinoa to the pan and stir it all together. To enhance the flavors, I like to add herbs like parsley, thyme, and oregano.

The result is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that complements the earthy flavors of the lentil salad perfectly.

Grilled Chicken

If you’re looking for a protein option to go with your meal, try grilling some chicken for added flavor and tenderness. Grilled chicken is one of my go-to choices when I want a delicious and healthy protein option.

The smoky flavor that comes from grilling adds an extra level of deliciousness to the chicken. Plus, grilling helps to keep the chicken moist and tender. I love how the grill marks give the chicken a beautiful charred look, making it even more appetizing.

Whether you marinate the chicken beforehand or simply season it with some salt and pepper, grilling is a fantastic way to elevate the taste of your chicken.

Citrus Vinaigrette

The citrus vinaigrette adds a tangy and refreshing flavor to the grilled chicken. It’s the perfect complement to the smoky and juicy chicken. I love how the citrus notes cut through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced flavor profile.

The vinaigrette is made with fresh lemon juice, orange zest, olive oil, and a touch of honey for sweetness. It’s a simple yet delicious combination of ingredients that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.

I like to drizzle the vinaigrette over the grilled chicken just before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together. It adds a burst of brightness and acidity that takes the dish to the next level.

Trust me, you won’t want to skip this citrus vinaigrette when serving grilled chicken.

Avocado and Tomato Salad

I’m really enjoying the combination of creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes in this salad. The richness of the avocado pairs perfectly with the freshness of the tomatoes, creating a delightful flavor and texture contrast.

The creaminess of the avocado adds a smooth and velvety element to the salad, while the tomatoes burst with a juicy sweetness. It’s like a match made in culinary heaven!

I love how the avocado adds a richness to the salad without overpowering the other ingredients. The tomatoes provide a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the creaminess of the avocado.

This salad is not only delicious, but it’s also nutritious! Avocados are packed with healthy fats and vitamins, while tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants. It’s a win-win situation!

Herbed Couscous

We can enhance the flavor of herbed couscous by adding fresh herbs like parsley and mint. These herbs not only add a burst of freshness but also complement the Mediterranean flavors of the couscous.

To make herbed couscous, I start by cooking the couscous according to the package instructions. While it’s still hot, I stir in a generous amount of chopped parsley and mint. The herbs infuse the couscous with their vibrant flavors and aromas. I also like to add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy kick.

The result is a deliciously fragrant and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether served with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a hearty stew, herbed couscous adds a tasty twist to any meal.

Crispy Parmesan Cauliflower

To achieve a crispy texture, you’ll want to coat the cauliflower florets in a mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings before baking them in the oven.

I love making crispy Parmesan cauliflower as a delicious and healthy side dish. It’s super easy to prepare and always turns out so tasty.

First, I preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, I mix together grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Next, I dip each cauliflower floret into the mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. After that, I place the coated florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

The Parmesan cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the cauliflower, while the breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunch.

This dish always impresses my guests and is a great way to enjoy cauliflower in a new and exciting way.

Greek Tzatziki Sauce

After enjoying the crispy Parmesan cauliflower, I couldn’t resist sharing another fantastic side dish to serve with lentil salad – Greek tzatziki sauce.

This creamy and refreshing sauce is the perfect companion to the earthy flavors of lentils. Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, and a splash of lemon juice, tzatziki adds a burst of tanginess and a cool contrast to the hearty lentil salad.

The creamy texture of the tzatziki perfectly complements the soft, tender lentils. Whether you drizzle it on top of the salad or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side, tzatziki takes the lentil salad to a whole new level of deliciousness. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist going for seconds!

Balsamic Glazed Mushrooms

The balsamic glazed mushrooms are a savory and flavorful addition to any meal. I absolutely love how these mushrooms bring a burst of tangy sweetness to my dishes.

I start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in a hot pan with some olive oil and garlic until they become golden brown. Then, I drizzle them with a mixture of balsamic vinegar, honey, and soy sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together.

As the glaze thickens and coats the mushrooms, the aroma fills the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

These balsamic glazed mushrooms are perfect as a side dish or topping for grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even a simple omelette. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Garlic Roasted Potatoes

You’ll love the crispy and flavorful garlic roasted potatoes that are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. I always turn to this recipe when I want to add a little something extra to my dinner.

The potatoes are seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then roasted in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The garlic adds a delicious savory flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

Whether I’m serving them with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even just a simple salad, these potatoes never disappoint. They are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

I always love how the combination of spinach and feta adds a burst of flavor to these stuffed portobello mushrooms. The earthiness of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy taste of the feta cheese and the freshness of the spinach. It’s like a party in your mouth!

To make these delicious stuffed mushrooms, I start by removing the stems and gills from the portobellos and brushing them with olive oil. Then, I sauté a mixture of spinach, garlic, and onions until wilted, before adding in the crumbled feta. Once the filling is ready, I stuff it into the mushroom caps and bake them in the oven until they are tender and golden brown.

These spinach and feta stuffed portobello mushrooms are not only packed with flavor, but they also make a great vegetarian main course or a tasty side dish.

Lemon Herb Salmon

For a zesty and refreshing taste, squeeze some lemon juice over the herb-infused salmon. This simple yet delicious dish is a go-to for me when I want something light and flavorful.

I start by marinating the salmon in a mixture of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and thyme, along with some minced garlic and olive oil. After letting it sit for a while to absorb all those flavors, I grill or bake it until it’s perfectly cooked and flaky.

Then, I finish it off by squeezing some fresh lemon juice over the top. The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the salmon and brings out the herb flavors even more. It’s the perfect combination of tangy and savory, and it always leaves me wanting more.

Cucumber and Dill Salad

To make a refreshing cucumber and dill salad, simply combine sliced cucumbers, chopped fresh dill, and a tangy dressing made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and a hint of garlic.

I love how this salad brings together the crispness of the cucumbers with the fragrant flavor of the dill. The dressing adds a creamy and tangy element that perfectly complements the freshness of the vegetables. It’s such a simple recipe, but the flavors really shine through.

I enjoy making this salad as a side dish for summer barbecues or even as a light lunch on its own. The combination of the cool cucumbers and the herby dill is incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.

Sweet Potato Fries

After enjoying the refreshing and tangy Cucumber and Dill Salad, I like to switch gears and bring some warmth to my lentil salad with a side of delicious Sweet Potato Fries.

These crispy delights add a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the earthy flavors of the lentils. I love how the soft interior of the sweet potatoes contrasts with their crispy exterior, creating a delightful texture.

I usually season them with a sprinkle of salt and paprika for an extra kick. Whether I’m serving the lentil salad as a main dish or a side, these tasty fries never fail to impress. They are a crowd-pleasing addition that takes the meal to the next level.

Caprese Skewers

The Caprese Skewers are a delightful appetizer that combines the freshness of tomatoes, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the tanginess of basil in every bite.

I love making these skewers for parties or gatherings because they are not only delicious but also visually appealing.

To make them, I simply thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves onto skewers. The combination of flavors is simply divine.

The juicy sweetness of the tomatoes pairs perfectly with the smooth and creamy mozzarella, while the basil adds a refreshing and aromatic touch.

These skewers are also incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for any occasion.