Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Indulge in a fresh and flavorful salad that's bursting with Mediterranean delights.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – A Refreshing and Nourishing Dish

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a delightful combination of crisp vegetables, hearty chickpeas, and tangy lemon vinaigrette. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a satisfying main course when paired with whole grain bread or grilled protein.

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber. They provide a satisfying texture and help keep you full longer. The salad is loaded with fresh cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, and Kalamata olives, all of which contribute to a variety of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.

The lemon vinaigrette is simple yet vibrant, made with fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, and a touch of Dijon mustard for depth. It perfectly complements the ingredients, tying all the flavors together. For those who enjoy cheese, adding crumbled feta provides a creamy and salty contrast, but the salad is equally delightful without it for a vegan option.

This salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for meal prep, picnics, or gatherings. It holds up well in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld even more over time.

Let's create this refreshing and wholesome salad.

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Ingredients

• 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Lemon Vinaigrette:
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1 - Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, chopped parsley, and mint leaves.

Step 2 - Make the Lemon Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Step 3 - Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss to ensure everything is well coated.

Step 4 - Add Feta Cheese (Optional): If using, fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5 - Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature. Enjoy your vibrant and healthy Mediterranean Chickpea Salad!