A protein-packed, refreshing chickpea salad with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light lunch.
Author:Ranime
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield:4-6 servings 1x
Category:Salad / Side Dish
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (omit for vegan)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (optional)
Dressing:
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cumin (optional)
Instructions
Prep chickpeas: Drain and rinse chickpeas thoroughly. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Chop vegetables: Dice cucumber, bell pepper, and halve cherry tomatoes. Finely chop red onion and fresh herbs.
Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and cumin.
Combine: In a large bowl, mix chickpeas, chopped vegetables, olives, and herbs. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
Add cheese: Fold in feta cheese (if using) just before serving to prevent it from dissolving.
Chill: Let salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve: Garnish with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Meal prep: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days (keep dressing separate if prepping ahead).
Vegan option: Skip feta or use vegan cheese.
Add-ins: Avocado, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts work well.
For crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds before serving.