MEDITERRANEAN CHICKPEA SALAD
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. It's perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course. Let's dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan version)
For the Dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, chopped parsley, and chopped mint leaves. Toss gently to combine.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the chickpea salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently toss again to distribute.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preferences.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Enjoy the refreshing flavors of this vibrant and nutritious salad!
Notes:
Feel free to customize this salad by adding other Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.
For a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
