Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a classic dish that perfectly balances flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, planning a quick lunch, or looking for a side dish for dinner, this recipe is your go-to. The combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta, and protein-packed chickpeas makes every bite irresistible.
But this salad isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, while the fresh vegetables bring a dose of vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, the zesty lemon dressing ties everything together with its refreshing tang.
In this post, I’ll share tips on how to prepare this salad, customize it to your liking, and make it ahead for meal prep. You’ll also find step-by-step photos to guide you along the way. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 20 minutes!
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh veggies.
- Customizable: Adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Serve it as a main dish, side, or appetizer.
Ingredient Spotlight
Lemon Dressing: A simple yet powerful blend of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
Chickpeas: The star of this dish, offering a creamy texture and protein boost.
Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
Cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint elevate the dish with vibrant aromas.
Feta Cheese: Optional but highly recommended for its tangy, creamy flavor.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salad:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, parsley, and feta cheese.
2. Make the Dressing:
– In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss and Serve:
– Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Tips
– For added crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top before serving.
– Use fresh herbs like basil or mint for a more aromatic flavor.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, seafood, or falafel. It’s also a great standalone meal for a light, healthy lunch.
Alternative Ingredients
– Swap feta cheese for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
– Add chopped bell peppers or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
– Replace chickpeas with cannellini beans or black beans for a twist.
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Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 piece cucumber, diced
- 1/2 piece red onion, thinly sliced-
- 1/2 Cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved-
- 1/4 Cup fresh parsley, chopped-
- 1/4 Cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tbsp olive oil-
- 2 tbsp lemon juice-
- 1 clove garlic, minced-
- 1 tbsp dried oregano-
- 1 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, parsley, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Yummy