Beluga Lentil Zottarella Salad with Fresh Turmeric Vinaigrette

<

Tiny, black and round with a rich earthy flavour and chewy texture, beluga lentils are named for the caviar they resemble. They hold their shape and firm texture when cooked, making them a good choice for salads. You can easily replace them with French green lentils. Fresh turmeric is the star in this anti-inflammatory dressing that adds incredible flavour and texture to this comforting salad.

Fresh Turmeric Vinaigrette	Salad
100 ml Olive oil 2-inch Fresh turmeric, peeled and grated 1 tbsp Maple syrup Juice of 1 lemon 3 tbsp White balsamic vinegar 2 Garlic cloves, minced 1 tsp Black pepper, ground 1/2 tsp Sea salt	200 g Beluga black lentils, rinsed 150 g Zottarella minis 120 g Baby spinach 1-2 Peaches, stoned and sliced Basil and parsley

1. To make the dressing, combine all the ingredients in a jar and shake until well combined. Chill until ready for use.
   
2. Fill a medium pot with 700 ml water and bring it to a boil. Add in rinsed black lentils and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until tender but still firm. Drain immediately through a fine strainer and rinse briefly with cool water. Drain again, set aside and allow to cool.
   
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled lentils with half of the dressing. Add the zottarella minis, peaches, parsley and basil and toss briefly. Divide the spinach leaves on two serving plates and spoon the lentil salad over. Serve with the additional dressing.

<

<