If you’re new to the Mediterranean diet—or simply looking for a fresh, veggie-forward meal—this Zesty Greek Goddess Lentil Bowl is an ideal place to start. It’s loaded with fiber-rich lentils, crunchy vegetables, and bright herbs, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Vegetarian, beginner-friendly, and deeply satisfying, this colorful bowl brings sun-soaked Mediterranean flavors to your table in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- (Optional) Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
To begin, place your rinsed lentils and water (or broth) in a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and allow the lentils to cool slightly.
While the lentils are cooking, prep your veggies. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice your red onion. Keep them all in a large salad bowl along with your sliced Kalamata olives and chopped parsley.
Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and dried oregano to create a bright dressing. Season with salt and pepper. Once the lentils are cool enough to handle, toss them into the salad bowl with the dressing, coating everything evenly. If desired, sprinkle a little crumbled feta on top for a creamy, tangy finish.
This Zesty Greek Goddess Lentil Bowl is a perfect introduction to the fresh and wholesome Mediterranean diet. It’s great for anyone craving a nutrient-packed meal that’s simple yet full of flavor, and it suits vegetarians or anyone aiming to eat more plant-based dishes. Feel free to swap in quinoa or chickpeas for the lentils, or switch up the veggies with what’s in season. Whenever you need a vibrant, healthy meal that comes together easily, this bowl will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean—no passport required!
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
