Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A Burst of Freshness

Mediterranean

Enjoy a bowl of this Mediterranean-inspired chickpea salad, loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. It’s nutritious, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the day.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

  1. 400 g canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
  2. 200 g cherry tomatoes (halved)
  3. 1 cucumber (diced)
  4. 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
  5. 50 g Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)
  6. 50 g feta cheese (crumbled)
  7. 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  8. 1 tbsp lemon juice
  9. 1 tsp dried oregano
  10. Salt and pepper to taste
  11. Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Alternative: Use vegan feta cheese for a dairy-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  4. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley on top.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sugar: 4 g

Vitamins and Benefits

Contains:

  • Vitamin C (tomatoes): Supports immune health.
  • Folate (chickpeas): Aids cell repair and growth.
  • Healthy fats (olive oil): Promote heart health.

Benefits:
This salad is rich in fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have been cultivated for over 7,000 years and are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

Storage Tips

  • Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Add the dressing and feta cheese just before serving for the freshest taste.

FAQ

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
“Yes, just soak and cook them beforehand to achieve the same texture.”

What other herbs can I use?
“Try mint or dill for a different flavor twist.”

Can this salad be made ahead of time?
“Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance but add the feta cheese just before serving.”

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