Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish packed with protein-rich chickpeas, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy feta, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or as a flavorful side, it’s a simple recipe that celebrates the bold and healthy flavors of the Mediterranean. With easy-to-find ingredients and endless customization options, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Get the full recipe on Satisfy Your Cravings and bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table today!
Equipment
- Cutting Board: Essential for chopping fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife will make slicing and dicing ingredients quick and efficient.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is ideal for tossing all the salad ingredients together without making a mess.
- Small Bowl or Jar: Use this for mixing the lemon-olive oil dressing. A jar with a lid is great if you want to shake the dressing instead of whisking.
- Whisk or Fork: For blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Strainer or Colander: Perfect for draining and rinsing the canned chickpeas.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients for both the salad and the dressing.
- Serving Spoon or Tongs: Useful for tossing the salad and serving it without damaging the ingredients.
- Lemon Juicer (Optional): While not essential, a citrus juicer makes squeezing fresh lemon juice easier and ensures you get every drop.
- Airtight Container (Optional): If you’re prepping the salad in advance or storing leftovers, an airtight container will keep it fresh.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 Can Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 Cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 Cucumber, diced
- ½ Red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ Cup Kalamata olives, halved
- ½ Cup Feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ Cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 Tbsp Fresh mint, chopped (optional for a refreshing twist)
For the Dressing
- 3 Tbsp Olive oil
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 Tbsp Red wine vinegar
- 1 Clove garlic, minced
- 1 Tsp Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the IngredientsBegin by draining and rinsing the chickpeas under cold water. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley and mint. If you’re using Kalamata olives, slice them in half for easier bites.
- Step 2: Make the DressingIn a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Pro tip: Prepare the dressing in advance to allow the flavors to meld for a more robust taste.
- Step 3: Combine the SaladIn a large mixing bowl, toss the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and herbs. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Step 4: Serve and EnjoyTransfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop even further.
Notes
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: The Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is perfect for meal prep. Prepare all the ingredients and store them separately, assembling just before serving to keep everything fresh. The dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom. Avoid adding the feta cheese until just before serving to maintain its texture.