Warm Balsamic Mushroom and Lentil Salad

Step 1

Prepare Creamy Garlic Dressing:In a medium bowl, combine cashew butter, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, and a pinch of sea salt; stir to combine. Gradually whisk in water in 1 Tablespoon increments until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with additional salt, if needed. Set aside.

Step 2

Prepare Mushroom and Lentil Mixture:Heat 2 Tbsp. olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add mushrooms and cook, undisturbed, for 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, add shallots and thyme, toss to combine, and continue cooking until mushrooms are golden and shallots are soft, about 5 to 7 more minutes.Add additional 2 Tbsp. of olive oil, along with balsamic vinegar, lentils, salt, and black pepper; cook 2 more minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.

Step 3

Assemble Salads:Arrange greens in a serving bowl and spoon lentil and mushroom mixture overtop. Drizzle with dressing and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast) and cracked black pepper, if desired.