Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta

Description

This salad is fresh, hearty, and protein-rich, combining tender chickpeas, crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onion, and briny olives, finished with crumbly feta cheese and a bright lemon–olive oil dressing. It’s light yet filling, perfect for warm days or meal prep.

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Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

Salad

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (canned, rinsed and drained)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 100 g feta cheese, crumbled

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 small clove garlic, finely minced (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Rinse and drain the chickpeas well.

2. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.

3. Pit the olives if needed.

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Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic (if using), salt, and black pepper.

2. Taste and adjust acidity or seasoning.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley.

2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

3. Sprinkle feta cheese on top.

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Step 4: Serve

• Serve immediately or chill for 15–20 minutes to let flavors meld.

• Finish with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

• Texture: Creamy chickpeas, crisp vegetables, crumbly feta

• Flavor: Fresh, tangy, lightly salty, and well-balanced

• Style: Mediterranean, wholesome, and refreshing