Easy Refreshing Lentil Tomato Basil Summer Salad Recipe You’ll Love

Looking for a light, healthy, and flavorful summer dish? This Refreshing Lentil Tomato Basil Summer Salad is a perfect warm-weather favorite. Packed with protein-rich lentils, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, it’s simple yet vibrant. The zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette brings it all together for a refreshing bite every time.

Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a cookout, or just craving something fresh, this salad delivers. It’s gluten-free, vegetarian, and ideal as a main or side dish. Plus, it’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and requires only a few pantry staples. This is the kind of easy, wholesome meal that celebrates the season.

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Tomato Basil Salad

This lentil salad is a summer must! It’s nutritious, easy to make, and bursting with flavor. The earthy lentils balance beautifully with sweet tomatoes and aromatic basil, while the lemon vinaigrette keeps everything light and tangy.

You’ll love how filling it is—thanks to fiber and plant-based protein—and how easily it fits into any diet. It’s great for meal prep, picnics, or as a base for adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. With just a few fresh ingredients, you get a healthy, refreshing salad that’s both satisfying and versatile.

What You’ll Need

This refreshing summer salad comes together with just a handful of wholesome, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one plays a role in building fresh flavor and a satisfying texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils – Rinsed and picked over
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes – Halved for juicy bursts of flavor
• 1/2 small red onion – Finely chopped for a bit of sharpness
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves – Torn or thinly sliced for that signature summer aroma

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Smooth, healthy base
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – Adds tang and brightness
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Helps emulsify and adds depth
• 1 clove garlic – Minced for a subtle punch
• Salt and pepper to taste – Brings it all together

Optional Add-Ins:

• Crumbled feta or goat cheese (for a creamy bite)
• Cucumber slices or baby spinach (for extra greens)
• Toasted sunflower seeds or pine nuts (for added crunch)

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to mix in your favorites or use what you have on hand.

How to Make Lentil Tomato Basil Salad

Making this salad is quick and easy! Follow these steps to create a fresh, healthy dish that’s perfect for any summer meal.

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

• In a medium pot, add 1 cup lentils and 3 cups water.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy.
• Drain, rinse under cold water to cool, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 minced garlic clove
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Mix well until emulsified.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

• In a large bowl, add:
  • Cooked and cooled lentils
  • 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup torn basil leaves
  • 1/2 small chopped red onion
• Pour dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

• Let it rest for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

That’s it! Serve it chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pita bread, or on its own as a satisfying lunch.

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You Must Know

Before you make this salad, here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:

• Use the right lentils: Green or brown lentils hold their shape best—skip red or yellow, which get mushy.
• Cool completely: Let lentils cool fully before mixing so basil stays fresh and tomatoes don’t get soggy.
• Fresh is best: Fresh basil, lemon juice, and ripe tomatoes are key for bold summer flavor.
• Rinse lentils: Always rinse before cooking to remove grit and improve texture.
• Taste and adjust: Tomatoes vary in sweetness—don’t hesitate to tweak lemon or salt for balance.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Even simple recipes deserve a perfect touch. Here’s how:

• Don’t overcook lentils: Check them around 20 minutes—they should be tender with a bite.
• Cool fast: Rinse cooked lentils with cold water right away to stop cooking.
• Shake the dressing: Whisk or shake until smooth so it coats evenly.
• Wait before serving: Let the salad rest 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld.
• Toss gently: Use a soft hand or spoon to keep lentils intact and basil bright.

Add Your Touch Lentil Tomato Basil Salad

This salad is a perfect canvas for your creativity. Want to make it your own? Try these easy swaps and additions:

• Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.
• Cheese lovers: Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy contrast.
• Crunch factor: Add toasted pine nuts, sunflower seeds, or chopped cucumbers for extra texture.
• Greens boost: Mix in baby spinach or arugula for more color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey can add a bold kick.

This salad is flexible, so don’t be afraid to adjust based on what’s in your fridge or what’s in season. It’s built to adapt and still taste amazing.

Storing & Reheating

This salad is ideal for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!

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• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen over time.
• Basil tip: For best results, add fresh basil just before serving. It tends to darken after a day in the fridge.
• Dressing tip: If storing separately, keep extra dressing in a sealed jar and shake before using.
• No reheating needed: This is a cold salad—just stir and serve! But if you prefer it slightly warm, microwave lentils briefly before mixing in other ingredients.

This dish holds up well and is great for lunches, potlucks, or quick dinners.

Chef’s Helpful Tips for Lentil Tomato Basil Salad

These quick tips will take your salad from good to great:

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• Cook lentils just right: Aim for tender but firm. Overcooked lentils turn mushy fast.
• Let it rest: Give the salad at least 10 minutes before serving to absorb the dressing fully.
• Use quality olive oil: It makes a noticeable difference in taste, especially in a simple vinaigrette.
• Chill before serving: Want it extra refreshing? Pop it in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.
• Batch it: Double the recipe and portion into containers for easy, healthy lunches all week.
• Fresh basil rule: Tear it gently by hand instead of chopping—it preserves aroma and texture better.

A little attention to these details ensures each bite is full of flavor, texture, and summer freshness.

FAQ for Lentil Tomato Basil Salad

Can I use canned lentils?
Yes—just drain and rinse well. Use about 2 1/2 cups of canned lentils to replace 1 cup dry.

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How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days, but for best taste, eat within 2–3 days. Add fresh basil just before serving.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! Prep all ingredients and store separately. Combine before serving for the freshest results.

Is it vegan?
Yes! Just skip cheese add-ins, or use plant-based alternatives.

What can I serve it with?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or pita and hummus. It also makes a great stand-alone lunch.

Conclusion

The Refreshing Lentil Tomato Basil Summer Salad is everything a summer recipe should be—simple, healthy, and full of flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients and pantry staples, you can create a vibrant, satisfying dish that works for lunch, dinner, or any casual get-together.

It’s versatile enough to serve as a light main or a flavorful side, and thanks to its plant-based protein and fiber-rich lentils, it fills you up without weighing you down. Whether you keep it classic or add your own spin, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your summer rotation.

Make a big batch for meal prep, bring it to a picnic, or serve it at your next BBQ—it’s guaranteed to impress without the stress. When you want to eat clean, fresh, and delicious, this salad delivers every time.

Now it’s your turn—grab your lentils, slice up those tomatoes, and bring a bowl of sunshine to your table!