Healthy Mediterranean Cooking

Happy Summer everyone!
After returning from Crete just a few weeks ago, I have been obsessed with their cooking culture. From their meat, to dairy, to fresh produce, everything is local and sustainable which means extra fresh and delicious food! How much do I love their style of cooking? So much so that I designed a cooking class that follows their culinary practices. I am a big believe in Farmers Markets and making sure that all your ingredients are fresh, sustainable and local. I know it can often be hard to follow this but in this class I will show you how you can! Below is a recipe for one of my favorite lentil salads to inspire you. It is super easy, very tasty and full of healthy ingredients. Have a great week!

If you like this recipe you will love my Healthy Mediterranean class on July 8th. Just visit Amandacooks.com to register.

Bon Appetit!

Curried Lentil Salad with Walnuts
Serves 6

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups French lentils
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 4 scallions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup chopped mint
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 Tb. lemon juice
• 2 tsp. curry powder
• Salt, pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Procedure

1. Combine the lentils and bay leaf in a medium saucepan with cold water to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a simmer and cover, simmer about 20 minutes, until tender. Drain. Transfer to a medium bowl and remove bay leaf. Add the red pepper, scallions, walnuts and mint.
2. Combine the garlic, lemon and curry in a small bowl and whisk. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add the olive oil slowly and taste for seasoning. Toss the dressing with the lentils.
3. Serve at room temperature or warm.