Turkish Lentil Salad (Adas Salatasi) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 cups lentils (rinsed)
4 cups water
1/4 cup olive oil
1 red onion (chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
2 teaspoons cumin
1 -2 lemon (juiced-to taste)
1/4 cup parsley (minced)
salt & freshly ground black pepper
2 tomatoes (seeded and diced) (optional)
10 -15 black olives (optional)
1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
1/2 cup cucumber (seeded & diced0 (optional)

Preparation

Cook lentils over medium heat simmer covered 20-30 minute Do not overcook, drain and rinse with cold water.
Heat olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat, add onion and cook until translucent, add garlic & cumin, cook another minute.
Place lentils in a large bowl, add onions, cumin & stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper.
Set aside for at least 30 minutes.
Garnish with tomatoes, olives, cheese or cucumbers.