RECIPE

Bulgur and Lentil Salad with Chickpeas

• Recipe by Deborah Madison

Ingredients

1. 1 cup beluga or French green lentils, rinsed and picked over (1/2 pound)
2. 1 bay leaf
3. Salt
4. 3 cups warm water
5. 1 cup fine bulgur (6 ounces)
6. 3 medium shallots, finely chopped
7. 1/4 cup aged red wine vinegar
8. 2 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
9. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10. 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
11. 3 tablespoons walnut oil
12. Freshly ground pepper
13. 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas or one 19-ounce can, rinsed
14. 1 cup finely chopped parsley
15. 3 tablespoons finely chopped tarragon
16. 1/2 cup walnut halves, toasted and coarsely chopped

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, cover the lentils with water. Add the bay leaf and 1/2 teaspoon salt; bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 20 minutes. Drain well.
2. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, pour the warm water over the bulgur and let soak until tender, about 30 minutes. Drain the bulgur and lightly squeeze it dry. Transfer it to a large bowl.
3. In a small bowl, combine the shallots with the vinegar. In a mortar, puree the garlic with 1/2 teaspoon salt; add to the shallots. Whisk in the lemon juice and the olive and walnut oils. Season with pepper.
4. Add the lentils, chickpeas, parsley and tarragon to the bulgur. Add the dressing and stir gently but thoroughly. Serve the salad warm or at room temperature, garnished with the walnuts.

Make Ahead

The salad can be refrigerated for up to 1 day. Bring to room temperature before serving.