Discover a burst of freshness with this herbed lemon millet salad. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, this salad combines the nutty flavor of millet with zesty lemon and fresh herbs. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Let’s dive into this vibrant and healthy recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the millet under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.
   • Add the millet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Fluff with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled millet, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, mint, and dill.
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
4. Add Toppings (Optional):
   • If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds over the salad.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the herbed lemon millet salad chilled or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations:

• Protein Addition: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Extra Veggies: Mix in your favorite seasonal vegetables for added color and nutrition.
• Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld and become even more delicious.

This herbed lemon millet salad is a refreshing, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors and the wholesome goodness of millet combined with fresh vegetables and herbs. Happy cooking!