Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Feta

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Step 4: Serve

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

• Finish with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Texture & Flavor Profile

• Texture: Creamy chickpeas, crisp vegetables, crumbly feta

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

• Style: Mediterranean, wholesome, and refreshing