The Lentil Avocado Bowl from Sweetgreen features protein-rich lentils, creamy avocado, fresh greens, and vibrant cherry tomatoes, tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, creating a colorful and nutritious meal with a refreshing and satisfying texture.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Colander or sieve
- Whisk
- Salad tongs or serving spoons
- Citrus juicer
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 ripe avocado
- 4 cups mixed fresh greens (such as arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Lentils should be cooked until tender but firm to maintain their texture in the bowl. Choose a ripe avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure for a creamy consistency without being mushy. Fresh greens like arugula, spinach, or spring mix add vibrant color and a variety of nutrients essential for this dish. Cherry tomatoes should be firm and bright to provide a juicy burst with every bite. Your Lentil Avocado Bowl from Sweetgreen copycat menu will combine these ingredients harmoniously for a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Instructions
- Cook lentils, drain, and let cool.
- Wash and dry greens in salad spinner.
- Slice cherry tomatoes in half.
- Thinly slice red onion.
- Chop fresh cilantro.
- Halve, pit, and slice avocado.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper to make dressing.
- Combine cooked lentils, greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a large mixing bowl.
- Drizzle dressing over salad ingredients.
- Toss gently with salad tongs to combine.
- Add avocado slices on top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Lentil Avocado Bowl from Sweetgreen copycat menu balances tender lentils with creamy avocado and fresh mixed greens for a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal. If you don't have fresh lemon juice on hand, a splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can provide a similar zesty brightness to the dressing. When ripe avocados are unavailable, mashed hummus or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add creaminess while boosting protein content. Use cooked lentils from a can for convenience, but rinse them thoroughly to reduce sodium and improve flavor. You can customize the bowl by swapping cherry tomatoes for cucumbers or roasted bell peppers depending on seasonal availability.
Tips
Ensure lentils are fully cooked but not mushy to maintain a slightly firm texture that complements the fresh greens and avocado. Drying the greens thoroughly in a salad spinner prevents the dressing from becoming watery, preserving the salad's vibrant flavors. When slicing the avocado, pick one that yields to gentle pressure for optimal creaminess. Whisk the dressing ingredients vigorously until well emulsified to evenly coat the salad, enhancing the balance between the zesty lemon and smooth olive oil for your taste buds.
Nutritions
The Lentil Avocado Bowl provides a balanced source of nutrition, combining plant-based protein from cooked lentils with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats found in ripe avocado. Your meal delivers essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and folate from fresh greens, vitamin C from cherry tomatoes and lemon juice, and antioxidants from cilantro. The olive oil dressing enhances absorption of fat-soluble nutrients while contributing beneficial polyphenols. Fiber content from lentils and vegetables supports digestive health, making this bowl a satisfying and nourishing choice.
Storage
Store leftover Lentil Avocado Bowl in an airtight container to maintain freshness, keeping the avocado slices separate to prevent browning. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to preserve the texture of the lentils and greens. Your salad will stay flavorful and crisp when dressed just before serving again.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute cooked quinoa or farro for lentils to add a different texture and boost your meal's fiber content. Roast the cherry tomatoes briefly to deepen their flavor and enhance the sweetness before mixing them into the salad. Instead of fresh lemon juice, try using a splash of apple cider vinegar in the dressing to bring a subtle tang. Incorporating toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds can add a satisfying crunch and extra protein to your Lentil Avocado Bowl.
Allergies
The Lentil Avocado Bowl contains common allergens such as mustard and honey, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Some people might also experience allergic responses to avocado or cilantro, including itching or swelling. If you have a known allergy to any of these ingredients, it's important to substitute or avoid this dish to protect your health.
Why this recipe?
The Lentil Avocado Bowl from Sweetgreen is praised for its balance of nutritious ingredients like lentils, creamy avocado, kale, and quinoa, providing a protein-packed and fiber-rich meal. You'll enjoy a fresh, flavorful combination of earthy lentils and smooth avocado, enhanced by vibrant, tangy dressings often used in Sweetgreen's preparation. Replicating this bowl at home is worth trying because it allows you to customize the flavors and control ingredient quality while enjoying a wholesome, hearty dish. This copycat approach helps you savor a restaurant-quality, nutrient-dense bowl without the restaurant price or wait.