Vegan Lentil Niçoise Salad is a fresh, protein-packed twist on the classic French dish. Instead of tuna and eggs, this plant-based version uses hearty lentils, crisp vegetables, and a tangy Dijon dressing. It’s colorful, filling, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner — a complete meal that balances texture, flavor, and nutrition beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
-
1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
-
3 cups water or vegetable broth
-
8–10 baby potatoes, halved
-
1 cup green beans, trimmed
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
½ cup pitted Kalamata olives
-
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
-
2 cups mixed greens or arugula
For the Dressing:
-
3 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp red wine vinegar
-
1 tsp Dijon mustard
-
1 small garlic clove, minced
-
1 tsp maple syrup or agave
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking Time
-
Prep time: 15 minutes
-
Cook time: 25 minutes
-
Total time: 40 minutes
Serving
-
Serves 4
Instructions
-
Cook the lentils:
In a saucepan, combine lentils and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and let cool slightly. -
Cook the potatoes:
In another pot, boil the halved baby potatoes for 10–12 minutes until tender. Drain and let them cool. -
Blanch the green beans:
Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain and set aside. -
Prepare the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until smooth. -
Assemble the salad:
On a large platter, layer greens, lentils, potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, red onion, and olives. -
Dress and serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Tips
-
Use French green lentils (du Puy) — they hold their shape best.
-
Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
-
This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it great for meal prep.
Nutrition (per serving)
-
Calories: 320
-
Protein: 13g
-
Fat: 12g
-
Carbohydrates: 40g
-
Fiber: 11g
This Vegan Lentil Niçoise Salad is vibrant, balanced, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor — a wholesome and elegant dish that proves plant-based eating can be both satisfying and full of character.
