Fresh and Flavorful Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant and nutritious Mediterranean Chickpea Salad recipe! Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, colorful vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a potluck favorite, this salad is sure to impress. Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (canned or cooked from dried)

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chickpeas:

• If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. If using dried chickpeas, cook them according to package instructions until tender. Allow them to cool slightly.

2. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, and chopped fresh parsley.

4. Add the Dressing:

• Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Optional: Add Feta Cheese:

• If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. The feta adds a delicious creamy tanginess to the dish.

6. Chill and Serve:

• Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.

7. Garnish and Enjoy:

• Just before serving, garnish the salad with additional fresh parsley leaves. Serve as a standalone meal or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or your favorite Mediterranean-inspired entrée.

Conclusion: With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and wholesome ingredients, this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a true delight for the senses. Whether you're enjoying it as a light lunch or serving it at your next gathering, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients and get ready to savor the taste of the Mediterranean with every bite! Buon appetito!