Lentils aren't just for winter: in a salad, cold and dressed with good oil, they are light, filling, and packed with plant protein. Adding flaked cod provides a seafood flavor and complete protein, making them a perfect standalone dish for summer or a healthy and appealing packed lunch. Legume cuisine with a gourmet twist.
Lentil and cod salad is a dish you would never order in a restaurant but becomes a favorite at home. Lentils provide plant protein, iron, and a creamy texture; cod adds marine protein, saltiness, and flavor. Together, with crunchy vegetables and a good vinaigrette, they form a complete, nutritious, and surprisingly delicious dish. It's the perfect quick dinner: everything cold, no cooking (if you use canned lentils), ready in 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 200 g desalted flaked cod (we use Extra Desalted Flaked Cod - 500g)
- 400 g cooked lentils (1 drained can)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced small
- 1 ripe tomato, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced julienne
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Vinaigrette: extra virgin olive oil, sherry vinegar, mustard, salt
- Hard-boiled egg (optional)
Step-by-step preparation
- Rinse canned lentils under the tap to remove the viscous liquid. Drain them well. Place them in a large bowl.
- Add the flaked cod, bell pepper, tomato, onion, and parsley. Mix gently.
- Prepare the vinaigrette: 4 tablespoons oil, 1 tablespoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon mustard, salt, and pepper. Emulsify and pour over the salad. Mix well.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes in the refrigerator for the lentils to absorb the vinaigrette. Serve cold or at room temperature, with chopped hard-boiled egg on top if desired.
The house trick
Lentils absorb vinaigrette like sponges: if you prepare it too far in advance, it might seem dry when served. Always add a final drizzle of oil and vinegar just before serving to refresh the flavors. And the thinly sliced red onion julienne provides a crunch and spiciness that perfectly contrasts with the creaminess of the lentils and cod.
Buy it at BacalaloExtra Desalted Flaked Cod - 500g€19.97 · 24-48h refrigerated delivery →Discover our entire collection of Flaked Cod →
Frequently asked questions
Canned or home-cooked lentils?
Good quality canned lentils, drained and rinsed, work perfectly for a quick salad. Homemade lentils (al dente) give a better texture if you have time.
Is the cod raw?
Yes, the desalted flaked cod is added raw (it's already cured), contributing its salty touch. If you prefer it milder, blanch it for one minute.
How long does it last in the fridge?
2-3 days well covered, making it ideal for meal prepping. Add the dressing and cod when serving if you prepare it in advance.
