Lentil, Beet & Crispy Prosciutto Salad with Lemon-Herb Goat Cheese Dressing
Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko

Wholesome, savory, and a little fancy—this winter salad will convert even the biggest beet skeptics.
Let’s talk salads that actually satisfy. This Lentil, Beet & Crispy Prosciutto Salad is one of those recipes I turn to again and again during the winter. It’s earthy, crunchy, creamy, a little salty, and perfectly tangy thanks to a lemon-herb goat cheese dressing that pulls it all together like a dream.
It’s everything I love in a bowl: comforting, crave-worthy, and built with simple, nourishing ingredients that just work. Whether you’re prepping for weekday lunches or want something elevated for a cozy dinner at home, this salad is your cold-weather go-to.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
- Protein-packed and super satisfying, thanks to lentils and prosciutto
- Layered with texture: crunchy croutons, creamy dressing, tender beets
- Naturally gluten-free friendly (just sub GF croutons!)
- A great way to enjoy winter veggies in a fresh, elevated way
- Keeps well—hello, meal prep salad of your dreams
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked lentils (green or French lentils work best)
- 3–4 small cooked beets, peeled and sliced or quartered
- 1 generous handful of sprouts (like sunflower or pea shoots)
- 1 cup sourdough croutons (homemade)
- 3 slices prosciutto, crisped in a skillet or oven
For the Lemon-Herb Goat Cheese Dressing:
- 8 oz (about 1 cup) herbed goat cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil
- 2–4 tbsp water, to thin
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Make the Dressing
In a small blender or bowl, whisk together the goat cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, and a bit of water. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more water to thin as needed. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Crisp the Prosciutto
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the prosciutto slices for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then crumble into shards.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl or serving platter, combine:
- Cooked lentils
- Sliced beets
- Croutons
- Sprouts
Drizzle with dressing and toss lightly. Top with crispy prosciutto and an extra crack of black pepper.
Dietitian Notes
This salad checks all the boxes when it comes to balance:
- Lentils are packed with fiber, iron, and plant protein
- Beets support liver detox and circulation with natural nitrates
- Goat cheese provides creaminess with less lactose than cow’s milk
- Crispy prosciutto = the savory crunch you didn’t know you needed
- All topped with healthy fats to help absorb fat-soluble vitamins
This is a great salad to batch-prep—just store the dressing and croutons separately and add when ready to serve.
Tips & Swaps
- Vegetarian? Skip the prosciutto and add roasted walnuts or chickpeas
- No sprouts? Use arugula, watercress, or microgreens
- Not a fan of beets? Try roasted carrots, delicata squash, or even golden beets
- Want to bulk it up? Add a soft-boiled egg or grilled chicken on top
Made This? Tag Me!
If you give this salad a try, I want to see it!
Tag me on Instagram @thefoodstylistrd—and show me how you styled it! Did you layer it up in a bowl? Pack it for lunch? Swap in a new veggie? Let’s inspire each other this season. 💜
How to Make your own Egg Holder Using Self-Drying Clay
Instagram Tiktok How to Make your own Egg Holder Using Self-Drying Clay Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko If you’re looking for a functional and creativ
Backsplash artwork – what I’ve been working on behind the scenes…
Instagram Tiktok Backsplash artwork – what I’ve been working on behind the scenes… Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko I’m thrilled to announce my p
Traveling with Kids: A Dietitian Mom’s Guide to Stress-Free Adventures
Jump to Packing List Instagram Tiktok Traveling with Kids: A Dietitian Mom’s Guide to Stress-Free Adventures Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko I Know a Thing o
Yogurt Fruit Bowl with Pomegranate, Strawberries & Bee Pollen
Jump to Recipe Instagram Tiktok Yogurt Fruit Bowl with Pomegranate, Strawberries & Bee Pollen Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko A refreshing and nutrient-packed br

"I do not consider myself as anything special unless I am able to achieve success. I strive to keep moving forward, organizing my life, and facing challenges head-on."
Elis Halenko