Germination

A delightful and nutritious dish that will bring a burst of freshness to your table – germination salad. Germination process not only enhances the flavor of the ingredients but also increases their nutritional value, making this salad not just delicious but also incredibly healthy. Packed with vitamins and natural goodness, this salad is a perfect choice for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish to accompany any main course.

**Germination Salad**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup sprouted lentils
– 1 cup mixed baby salad greens
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Sprouts:** To sprout lentils, soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse the lentils, then place them in a sprouting jar or a fine-mesh sieve set over a bowl. Rinse and drain the lentils twice a day for 2-3 days until they sprout. Once sprouted, rinse thoroughly and drain well before using in the salad.

2. **Assemble the Salad:** In a large salad bowl, combine the sprouted lentils, baby salad greens, cherry tomatoes, sliced almonds, and crumbled feta cheese.

3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. **Drizzle and Toss:** Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Transfer the salad to a serving plate or bowl and serve immediately. Enjoy the freshness and crunchiness of the germinated ingredients and savor the delicious flavors.

6. **Storage Tips:** If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well for up to a day.

7. **Variations:** Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite ingredients. You can add grilled chicken, avocado slices, or a sprinkle of chia seeds for an extra nutritional boost. Swap feta cheese for goat cheese or use a different type of sprouted legume for added variety.

Germination salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of natural flavors and health benefits. By incorporating sprouted lentils and other germinated ingredients into your meals, you’re not only adding a unique twist to your culinary repertoire but also embracing the goodness of nature in its purest form. So, next time you’re looking for a wholesome and vibrant dish to brighten up your day, give this germination salad a try and relish the nourishing essence of freshly germinated ingredients.