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Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Recipe

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, healthy, and refreshing dish, packed with fresh vegetables, hearty chickpeas, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette. This salad is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense, making it a perfect choice for a quick lunch, a side dish, or even a light dinner. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits and delicious simplicity.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 people
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl (for dressing)
  • Whisk or Fork
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Can opener
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Salad serving spoons

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Vegetables

  • Open the can of chickpeas, drain, and rinse them under cold water. Set aside to drain.
  • Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the Kalamata olives.
  • Chop the fresh parsley.

Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Salad

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Add Finishing Touches

  • Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley to the salad. Toss lightly to combine.

Serve

  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

Tips

  • For added flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • Customize by adding or substituting ingredients like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or avocados.
  • For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
  • This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal.
  • Ensure the vegetables are uniformly chopped for a consistent texture and presentation.
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a versatile and nutritious dish that fits well into various meal plans, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.