Lentil-and-Mint Salad

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Place lentils in a medium saucepan and cover with tepid water. Set aside to soak for 30 minutes. Drain the lentils and return them to the saucepan. Add the yellow onion, thyme, garlic and bay leaf. Cover the lentils by 2 inches with cold water and place over high heat. Bring to a boil, lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the lentils are tender but not mushy, about 30 minutes.

2. Step 2

   Remove the lentils from the heat. Discard the onion, thyme, garlic and bay leaf and drain the lentils. Place them in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, salt and cumin and pour over the lentils. Add the red onion and bell pepper and toss. Stir in the mint just before serving. Serve warm or cold with roasted lamb, beef or poultry.