# What You'll Need:
→ Lentils
01 - 1 cup dried black lentils (beluga lentils), rinsed
02 - 3 cups water
03 - 1 bay leaf
04 - ½ teaspoon salt
→ Roasted Vegetables
05 - 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
08 - 1 small carrot, diced
09 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
10 - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
11 - ½ teaspoon salt
→ Salad Additions
12 - ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
13 - ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
14 - 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
→ Dressing
15 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
16 - 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice
17 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
18 - 1 garlic clove, minced
19 - ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup
20 - Salt and pepper, to taste
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat oven to 425°F.
02 - Spread bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, and carrot on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
03 - Roast vegetables for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
04 - Place lentils, water, and bay leaf in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain and discard bay leaf. Stir in ½ teaspoon salt while warm.
05 - In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
06 - Combine warm lentils, roasted vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and parsley in a large bowl. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine. Add feta cheese if using.
07 - Serve warm or at room temperature.
