Thanksgiving Lentil Salad Recipe – Easy, Healthy & Festive!

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Thanksgiving Lentil Salad
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Table of Contents: Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

A Festive, Flavorful, and Nutritious Side Dish for Your Holiday Table

Looking for a healthy, vibrant, and delicious side dish that steals the show at Thanksgiving? This Thanksgiving Lentil Salad is packed with hearty lentils, crisp veggies, sweet cranberries, and a tangy maple-mustard dressing—it’s the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and refreshing!

Not only is this salad nutrient-dense and protein-rich, but it’s also easy to make ahead, saving you precious time on the big day. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative to heavier holiday dishes, offering a fresh pop of color and flavor.

If you loved our Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad: A Fresh and Nutritious Recipe Guide, you’ll adore this salad—it’s just as festive but with an extra protein boost! Ready to make your Thanksgiving spread even more memorable? Let’s dive in!

What is Thanksgiving Lentil Salad?

Ever wondered why lentils deserve a spot on your holiday table? Well, this Thanksgiving Lentil Salad is here to prove that humble legumes can be the star of the feast!

Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and festive flavors, this salad is a modern twist on classic holiday sides. The name? It’s simple—this dish combines hearty lentils with seasonal ingredients like cranberries, pecans, and fresh herbs, making it a Thanksgiving-worthy creation.

As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but honestly, this salad wins over everyone—vegans, meat-lovers, and even picky eaters! Whether you serve it as a side or a light main, it’s guaranteed to impress. Ready to give it a try?

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

1. Nutrient-Packed & Satisfying

Lentils are a protein powerhouse, keeping you full without the post-meal slump. Combined with fiber-rich veggies and healthy fats from pecans, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.

2. Budget-Friendly & Easy to Make

Skip the expensive pre-made salads! This dish costs a fraction of store-bought versions and takes just 20 minutes to prepare. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep!

3. Bursting with Festive Flavors

Sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a zesty maple-mustard dressing create a harmony of textures and tastes that scream holiday vibes!

Love hearty salads? Try our Fall Quinoa Salad: A Delicious & Healthy Autumn Recipe next—it’s another crowd-pleaser!

How to Make Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Thanksgiving Lentil Salad
Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Quick Overview

✅ Ready in 20 minutes
✅ No cooking required (if using pre-cooked lentils)
✅ Gluten-free & vegan-friendly
✅ Perfect for meal prep & leftovers

Key Ingredients

– 1.5 cups cooked lentils (green or brown)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– ½ cup dried cranberries
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– ¼ cup crumbled feta (optional, omit for vegan)
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt & pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix lentils, cucumber, cranberries, pecans, and parsley.
3. Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat.
4. Serve or chill: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or a cozy butternut squash soup. For a full plant-based spread, serve it alongside stuffed acorn squash or garlicky green beans.

Top Tips for Perfecting This Salad

✔ Use pre-cooked lentils to save time.
✔ Toast the pecans for extra crunch.
✔ Let it sit for 30 minutes before serving for maximum flavor.
✔ Make it ahead—it stays fresh for 3 days!

Storing and Reheating Tips

– Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Not recommended (lentils may become mushy).
– Serving leftovers: Enjoy cold or bring to room temperature before serving.

People Also Ask: Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Thanksgiving Lentil Salad
Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Is lentil salad good for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely! This salad is nutritious, festive, and easy to prepare, making it a perfect lighter side dish that complements traditional holiday meals.

What are the ingredients in Thanksgiving lentil salad?

Key ingredients include lentils, cucumber, cranberries, pecans, fresh herbs, and a maple-mustard dressing. Optional add-ins: feta cheese or roasted sweet potatoes.

Can lentil salad be made ahead?

Yes! It actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, making it ideal for meal prep or stress-free holiday cooking.

Is lentil salad a healthy Thanksgiving option?

Definitely! Lentils are high in protein and fiber, while cranberries and pecans add antioxidants and healthy fats—great for balancing heavier dishes.

Final Thoughts

This Thanksgiving Lentil Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to add a fresh, healthy, and delicious dish to their holiday table. Simple, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, it’s sure to become a new tradition!

Did you make it? Tag us on social media—we’d love to see your creations! And for more festive recipes, check out our Best Holiday Side Dishes roundup.

Happy cooking, and Happy Thanksgiving! 🍂🥗

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Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

Thanksgiving Lentil Salad

  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A hearty and colorful Thanksgiving lentil salad with roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 medium sweet potato, diced
  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans, toasted
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (for dressing)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss sweet potato, Brussels sprouts, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
  3. Meanwhile, cook lentils in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until tender. Drain excess liquid and set aside.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, roasted vegetables, cranberries, pecans, feta (if using), and parsley.
  6. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

This lentil salad can be made ahead of time and served warm or chilled. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a hearty side dish.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: thanksgiving salad, lentil salad, roasted vegetables, healthy holiday recipe