If you’re in the mood for something light yet bursting with flavor, this Zesty Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is your go-to dish. Perfect for a sunny day or a quick healthy lunch, this salad brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean straight to your kitchen.
Chickpeas are the star of this salad, providing a nutty flavor and a protein boost. Cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the chickpeas. Cherry tomatoes, with their natural sweetness, bring a juicy element to the mix. Red onion offers a sharp contrast, cutting through the richness of the other ingredients.
Kalamata olives contribute a briny, tangy element, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe. Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that pairs beautifully with the olives. Fresh parsley provides a fragrant, herbal lift to the dish.
The dressing is a simple blend of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, which ties all the flavors together with a bright and zesty finish.
This salad is wonderfully versatile. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with fresh pita bread or as a topping for a crisp green salad. For a heartier option, try it with quinoa or as a filling for a wrap.
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add in the cooked chickpeas, ensuring they’re well-drained. Next, toss in the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion. Give everything a gentle mix with a wooden spoon to start combining the flavors.
Now, it’s time for the olives and feta. Add the sliced kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. These ingredients bring a delightful briny and creamy element to the salad. Mix them in gently to avoid breaking the cheese too much.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and minced garlic. This dressing will be the zesty hero of your salad. Pour it over the salad ingredients and toss everything gently, ensuring the dressing coats each component.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the feta and olives are already salty, so go easy on the salt. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
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