Description
A vibrant and protein-packed Mediterranean chickpea salad featuring chickpeas, fresh vegetables, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect as a healthy make-ahead lunch or side dish that’s refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
For the Dressing
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, minced garlic, and season with salt and black pepper until the dressing is emulsified and well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Gently toss the salad until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Portion Salad: Divide the salad evenly into meal-prep containers or serving bowls for convenient lunches or side dishes.
- Refrigerate Before Serving: Cover and refrigerate the salad until ready to eat. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious taste.
Notes
- Keep the dressing separate if you prefer very crisp vegetables to avoid sogginess.
- For extra protein, add cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, or tuna.
- Store the salad refrigerated for up to 4 days for meal prep convenience.
- If adding avocado, do so just before serving to prevent browning and maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Meal Prep, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
