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Warm French Lentil and Duck Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette

Warm French Lentil and Duck Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette Bliss

This Warm French Lentil and Duck Salad with Mustard Vinaigrette is a delightful centerpiece that combines rich flavors and textures, perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: French
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pieces Duck Leg Confit Provides rich, meaty flavor; store-bought confit is convenient.
  • 1 cup French Green Lentils (Puy Lentils) Hold their shape well; can substitute with regular green lentils.
  • 1 stalk Celery Diced for crunch and freshness.
  • 1 medium Carrot Diced to add sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1/4 cup Flat-leaf Parsley Roughly chopped for freshness.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Chives Adds mild onion flavor; can substitute tarragon.
  • 2 cups Baby Arugula Serves as a peppery bed for the salad.
  • 1/2 cup Walnuts Toasted and chopped.
  • 1/2 cup Chèvre (Soft Goat Cheese) Optional topping for creaminess.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Base of the vinaigrette.
  • 1 tablespoon Whole Grain Mustard Adds texture; can be omitted.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Provides tangy punch.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Balances the acidity.
  • 1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness.
  • 1 small Shallot Finely minced.
For Cooking the Lentils
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Imparts herbal flavor.
  • 1 clove Garlic Smashed to infuse flavor.
  • to taste Flaky Sea Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • to taste Fine Sea Salt Added towards the end of cooking.
  • 4 cups Water or Stock For cooking lentils.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Rinse the French green lentils under cold water and place them in a medium saucepan. Add four cups of water or stock, a bay leaf, and a smashed garlic clove. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender. Add fine sea salt during the last 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a cold skillet, place the duck leg confit skin-side down. Render the fat for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip the duck, then roast for 10-12 minutes. Shred the meat, keeping skin in larger pieces.
  3. In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), red wine vinegar, honey, and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Whisk together and gradually drizzle in olive oil until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. In a large bowl, gently toss warm lentils with vinaigrette. Add diced celery, carrot, parsley, and chives. Mix gently, allowing lentils to absorb the vinaigrette flavor.
  5. On a large plate, spread a bed of baby arugula. Layer warm lentil mixture on top, sprinkle crispy duck pieces, and top with walnuts and chèvre. Drizzle remaining vinaigrette on top and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 20gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1100IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Consider making components in advance for quick assembly later. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

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