Paraben Free Pomegranate & Mint Lemony Lentils
Bright, jewel-toned, and packed with fresh flavor, this lentil dish is the kind of recipe that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort. Green lentils are simmered until just tender, then tossed while still warm in a zippy dressing of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, turmeric, and cumin — ingredients you can feel genuinely good about. The finishing touches are where it really sings: ruby pomegranate arils, torn fresh mint, sliced green onion tops, and an optional handful of dry-roasted pumpkin seeds add crunch, color, and a pop of sweetness in every bite. Every component here is a whole, recognizable ingredient, which matters when you're navigating products that might contain hidden additives or synthetic preservatives. There's no processed sauces, no packaged seasoning blends, and nothing that requires a label audit — just clean, straightforward cooking from start to finish. It works beautifully served warm right out of the bowl or at room temperature, making it equally at home as a weeknight side or a dish you bring to a gathering.
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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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