Lupin Free Pomegranate & Mint Lemony Lentils
Bright, jewel-toned, and packed with fresh flavor, this lentil dish is the kind of recipe that looks impressive enough for a dinner party but comes together with minimal fuss. Green lentils simmer until just tender, then get tossed while still warm in a zippy dressing of lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, turmeric, and cumin — a combination that's earthy, citrusy, and genuinely addictive. Pomegranate arils burst with sweetness against the savory lentils, while torn fresh mint and sliced green onion tops keep everything feeling light and vibrant. A handful of dry-roasted pumpkin seeds adds a satisfying crunch if you want a little extra texture. Lupin — a legume increasingly found in gluten-free flours, pasta, and packaged foods — can be tricky to avoid when buying pre-seasoned grain or legume dishes, but every ingredient here is straightforward and easy to verify. The whole thing works equally well served warm straight from the pot or at room temperature, making it a flexible side dish or a hearty standalone lunch.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 3 cups water
- ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 ½ lemons)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For finishing
- ½ cup pomegranate arils
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly torn
- 3 green onions (green tops only), thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp dry-roasted pumpkin seeds (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the rinsed lentils, water, and 1/2 tsp salt in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook, uncovered, until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape, 20–25 minutes. Drain through a fine-mesh strainer and spread on a large plate or sheet pan to cool for 5 minutes.
- 2
While the lentils cook, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, turmeric, cumin, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl until combined.
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