When the end of the month rolls around, many of us face the same quiet challenge: how to eat well without spending much. This hearty lentil salad might just be the answer you need in 2026. It takes little time, costs very few euros, and fills you up as much as a slow-cooked dish.
Why lentils deserve a starring role on your plate
Lentils are among the most affordable sources of plant-based protein available today. A 500-gram bag often costs less than two euros, yet it can feed a family of four with ease. As a result, they have become a go-to staple for budget-conscious cooks across Europe.
Beyond price, lentils offer impressive nutrition. They deliver iron, fibre, and B vitamins in every spoonful. For anyone trying to cut back on meat, they provide a satisfying texture that keeps hunger away for hours.
Green lentils work best in a cold salad because they hold their shape after cooking. Unlike red lentils, which tend to break down, green ones stay firm and slightly nutty. This makes them perfect for tossing with fresh vegetables and a bright dressing.
« I make this every end of the month — it fills me up just as much as a slow-cooked meal, and my whole family loves it. »
The simple ingredients you probably already have
You only need a handful of everyday items to put this dish together. Start with 200 grams of green lentils, one diced red onion, two chopped tomatoes, and a generous bunch of flat-leaf parsley. A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice bring everything to life.
To readBlack garden: why this bold trend is taking over yards in 2026 and the surprising benefits behind itFor extra crunch, add a small cucumber cut into cubes. Some cooks like to fold in crumbled feta or a few olives for a Mediterranean twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility — you can adapt it to whatever sits in your fridge.
Seasoning is equally straightforward. A pinch of cumin, salt, and pepper is all it takes. Consequently, even beginner cooks can prepare this meal in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Green lentils cook in roughly 20 minutes without pre-soaking
- One serving provides about 18 grams of plant protein
- The dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days
- Total cost per portion sits around one euro or less
- It works as a main course or a generous side dish
Step-by-step preparation for a filling lentil salad
Rinse the lentils under cold water, then place them in a pot with three times their volume of unsalted water. Bring the pot to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 20 minutes. They should be tender but not mushy.
While the lentils cook, chop all your vegetables. Dice the onion finely so its flavour blends rather than overpowers. Similarly, cut the tomatoes and cucumber into small, even pieces for a pleasant bite.
Once the lentils are done, drain them and let them cool for a few minutes. Then combine them with the vegetables in a large bowl. Pour over a dressing made from two tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of one lemon, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Toss everything gently and taste. Adjust the lemon or salt as you wish. This salad tastes great right away, yet it becomes even more flavourful after resting in the fridge for an hour or so.
Tips to make it even more satisfying
If you want more substance, stir in a soft-boiled egg cut in half. The warm yolk creates a rich contrast against the cool lentils. As a result, the dish feels closer to a full dinner than a simple side.
Another smart addition is a handful of toasted walnuts. They add healthy fats and a pleasant crunch that elevates the texture. Meanwhile, a spoonful of Dijon mustard in the dressing gives a subtle kick without being too sharp.
For meal-prep fans, this recipe scales up easily. Double the quantities on a Sunday, portion everything into glass containers, and you have lunch sorted for several days. Therefore, this approach saves both time and money during busy work weeks.
A budget-friendly salad that proves healthy eating is not expensive
Many people assume that eating well requires a large grocery budget. In reality, dishes built around legumes challenge that belief every day. This lentil salad costs roughly four euros total for four generous servings, making it one of the cheapest balanced meals you can prepare at home.
To readChickpea tortilla express takes just 15 minutes and saves lazy weeknight dinnersNutritionists across France have been encouraging more legume-based meals throughout 2026. Lentils, chickpeas, and beans all provide fibre that supports digestion and helps maintain steady energy levels. Hence, choosing them more often benefits both your wallet and your body.
Flavour is never a compromise with this recipe. The combination of tangy lemon, earthy cumin, and fresh parsley creates a bright, layered taste. Each bite feels satisfying without being heavy, which is why so many families return to this salad month after month.
Above all, this dish reminds us that good cooking does not require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. A few humble lentils, some crisp vegetables, and a punchy dressing are enough to create something truly nourishing. That simple truth is worth keeping in mind long after the end of the month has passed.
Crédit photo © DivertissonsNous
