Looking for a vibrant and nutritious salad that captures the essence of the Mediterranean? This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is the answer. It’s packed with protein-rich chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing that will brighten up your day. Perfect for lunch or as a side dish at your next gathering!
This salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, with the creaminess of feta cheese, the crunch of cucumbers, and the earthiness of chickpeas. Each bite is a burst of freshness that transports you straight to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea.
It’s not just delicious; this salad is also incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it on its own, serve it as a filling for wraps, or toss it with some grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Vibrant Ingredients
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad bursts with color and flavor, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
The combination of vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and dark Kalamata olives creates an inviting presentation.
Each ingredient plays a distinct role: the chickpeas provide a hearty base, while the feta cheese adds a creamy touch that complements the crunchiness of the vegetables.
Creating the Perfect Dressing
The salad’s light lemon-olive oil dressing is the perfect finishing touch.
Whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano creates a zesty flavor profile that elevates the dish.
Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances the overall taste, ensuring that every bite is refreshing and full of life.
Health Benefits
Chickpeas are a wonderful source of protein and fiber, contributing to the salad’s nutritional value.
Combined with the fresh vegetables and feta, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the body.
It’s a fantastic option for those looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish for grilled meats.
It’s versatile enough to be served at picnics, potlucks, or as a quick lunch option.
Consider pairing it with pita bread or using it as a filling for wraps to create a complete meal.
Preparation Tips
Preparing this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is quick and easy.
With a prep time of just 10 minutes, it’s a great option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
For optimal flavor, allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes after tossing can help the ingredients meld together beautifully.
Visual Appeal
The presentation of this salad is just as important as its taste.
Served in a rustic bowl and garnished with fresh parsley, it looks inviting on any table.
Completing the dish with a slice of lemon and a fork nearby encourages diners to dig in and enjoy a vibrant Mediterranean experience.
Delicious Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a colorful and healthy dish made with canned chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and Kalamata olives, all tossed in a light lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s crunchy, tangy, and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 230kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
