Are you looking for a nutritious, vibrant, and delicious meal prep idea? This Rainbow Lentil Salad is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins to keep you energized throughout the week. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and meal-prep friendly!
✔ High-Protein & Fiber-Rich – Lentils provide plant-based protein and keep you full for hours.
✔ Colorful & Nutritious – A variety of veggies offer essential vitamins and antioxidants.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Vegan & Gluten-Free – A wholesome meal for everyone!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- ½ cup cooked red or black rice
- ½ cup corn kernels
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Lentils and Rice
- Rinse 1 cup of lentils and cook them in boiling water for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain and let cool.
- Cook ½ cup of red or black rice according to package instructions. Let it cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and green onions into bite-sized pieces.
- Drain ½ cup of corn kernels (if using canned).
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Meal Prep Bowls
- Divide the lentils, rice, corn, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and green onions evenly into three meal prep containers.
- Drizzle the dressing over each bowl and garnish with fresh parsley.
Step 5: Store & Enjoy
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Enjoy cold or at room temperature!
Meal Prep Tips & Variations
- Add More Protein – Toss in chickpeas, tofu, or grilled tempeh.
- Switch the Grain – Use quinoa, bulgur, or brown rice instead of black rice.
- Spice it Up – Add a pinch of chili flakes or cumin for extra flavor.
- Make It Creamy – Drizzle with tahini or add avocado before serving.
This Rainbow Lentil Salad is a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and vibrant veggies, making it ideal for meal prep. It’s a healthy, filling, and colorful dish that will brighten up your lunch routine!