Name: Crunchy Dill Pickle Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Plant-Based
Ingredients: ½ cup dry brown rice; 1 small red onion, diced; 1 cup cold water; 1 medium bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves finely chopped (about 6 cups); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 English cucumber, diced; ½ cup walnuts, chopped; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 (548 mL) can brown lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 3 dill pickles, diced; 3 green onions, thinly sliced (both the whites and greens); 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional); For the Dressing: 1 batch creamy dill pickle dressing (link provided in the recipe)

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This Crunchy Dill Pickle Salad is a fresh, plant-based delight, blending vibrant flavors and textures that will satisfy both your taste buds and your cravings for something healthy. With lentils, kale, feta, and the irresistible crunch of dill pickles, it offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious lunch, a light dinner, or a side dish for your next meal, this salad checks all the boxes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad offers a wonderful combination of ingredients that give it a satisfying crunch and an explosion of flavor in every bite. The earthy, protein-packed lentils and hearty brown rice provide a solid base, while the crunchy dill pickles and walnuts add texture and zest. The creamy dill pickle dressing ties everything together with its tangy richness. Plus, this salad is easily customizable and can be made ahead of time for an easy meal prep option! Crunchy Dill Pickle Salad

Ingredients

½ cup dry brown rice
1 small red onion, diced
1 cup cold water
1 medium bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves finely chopped (about 6 cups)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 English cucumber, diced
½ cup walnuts, chopped
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 (548 mL) can brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 dill pickles, diced
3 green onions, thinly sliced (both the whites and greens)
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (optional)
1 batch of creamy dill pickle dressing (recipe link here)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Rice: Cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside to cool.
Mellow the Red Onions: Add the diced red onions to a small bowl or mason jar, cover with 1 cup of cold water, and set aside for about 5 minutes. Drain the water to mellow out the sharpness of the onions, making them more salad-friendly.
Prepare the Kale: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped kale. Drizzle with olive oil and massage gently for about 2 minutes until the kale softens and wilts slightly.
Assemble the Salad: Add the cooked brown rice to the massaged kale and mix well.
Add the Other Ingredients: To the bowl, add the diced cucumber, walnuts, panko breadcrumbs, lentils, crumbled feta, dill pickles, green onions, fresh dill (if using), and the soaked and drained red onions.
Dress the Salad: Drizzle with the creamy dill pickle dressing and toss everything together until well combined.
Serve: Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate it for up to 3 days for a make-ahead meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based feta or avocado for a creamy, dairy-free version.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a sliced jalapeño to give the salad a spicy kick.
Grilled Veggies: For extra flavor, try grilling the cucumber or even adding grilled mushrooms or zucchini to the salad.
Other Nuts: Swap walnuts with your favorite nuts, such as almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for different textures.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be served cold or at room temperature.
Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh and may not freeze well due to the texture of the vegetables and lentils.
Reheating: If you prefer to eat it warm, you can warm up the rice and lentils, but it’s best to add the dressing and other ingredients after reheating to maintain their fresh texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute the brown rice with quinoa, white rice, or any grain of your choice. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.

2. Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with goat cheese, cotija, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you prefer.

3. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and keep them in separate containers. When ready to eat, just combine them and add the dressing.

4. Can I make this salad spicy?

Yes, for a spicy version, you can add chili flakes, fresh chili, or a spicy dressing to the mix for extra heat.

5. Can I skip the pickles if I don’t like them?

If you’re not a fan of dill pickles, you can omit them or substitute with pickled vegetables like onions or cucumbers, or even a tangy vinaigrette.

6. How do I make this salad gluten-free?

To make the salad gluten-free, simply omit the panko breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative.

7. Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?

While fresh kale works best for this salad, you can use frozen kale. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the salad.

8. What can I serve this salad with?

This salad can be a main dish on its own or served as a side dish with grilled meats, tofu, or a hearty grain bowl.

9. How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the texture of the salad may change slightly after a day or two.

10. How do I make the creamy dill pickle dressing?

You can find the recipe for the creamy dill pickle dressing linked in the recipe. It’s made with a simple blend of dill pickles, mayonnaise, and other seasonings for that tangy, creamy flavor.

Conclusion

This Crunchy Dill Pickle Salad is a refreshing, plant-based dish packed with textures and flavors that will elevate your lunch or dinner. The combination of hearty lentils, crispy vegetables, tangy pickles, and creamy dressing makes it a perfect balance of savory, fresh, and crunchy. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for meal prep or a light weeknight dinner. Enjoy this vibrant salad on its own or as a complement to your favorite dishes!