Packed with wholesome plant‑based protein from chickpeas.
Bright and refreshing with fresh veggies and herbs.
Customizable — add olives, herbs, or cheese to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Cucumber, diced
Red onion, finely diced
Bell pepper, diced
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped
Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Extra‑virgin olive oil
Lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olives, parsley, and feta cheese if using.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together extra‑virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Servings and timing
Serves: About 4–6 people (varies by portion size)
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Total time: ~10 minutes
Variations
Add fresh mint or dill for extra herbaceous flavor.
Swap feta for goat cheese or leave it out for a vegan version.
Mix in roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra texture.
Try a splash of red wine vinegar or Dijon mustard in the dressing for a tangy twist.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as vegetables may become soggy.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold or at room temperature — no reheating needed.
FAQs
What type of chickpeas should I use?
Canned chickpeas that are drained and rinsed are easiest, but you can also cook dry chickpeas if you prefer.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours before serving. For best texture, add delicate ingredients like olives or herbs just before eating.
Is this salad vegan?
Yes — just omit the feta cheese and ensure the dressing is vegan.
Can I use other beans instead of chickpeas?
Absolutely — white beans or cannellini beans are good alternatives.
What can I serve with this salad?
Try it with grilled proteins like chicken or fish, or serve with pita bread for a complete meal.
How long will leftovers keep?
Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for about 3–4 days.
Can I add grains to this salad?
Yes — cooked quinoa or couscous make great additions for extra substance.
Is this salad healthy?
Yes, it’s rich in fiber, plant protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
Can I skip the dressing?
You can, but the olive oil and lemon dressing brings out the bright, classic Mediterranean flavors.
What herbs work best in this dish?
Parsley is classic, but mint, dill, or cilantro can also add fresh flavor.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a quick, nutritious, and versatile dish perfect for lunches, picnics, or side dishes. With simple ingredients and a bright lemon dressing, it’s a satisfying way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors any day of the wee
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and protein-packed salad featuring chickpeas, crisp vegetables, herbs, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s a quick and healthy option for lunch, a side, or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olives, parsley, and feta cheese if using.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavor.
Notes
Use canned chickpeas for convenience or cook dried chickpeas from scratch.Omit feta for a vegan version.Add fresh herbs like mint or dill for extra flavor.Best served cold or at room temperature.Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
