Description
2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/3 cup dried cherries, chopped
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas, feta cheese, dried cherries, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss gently to combine.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (if using canned chickpeas)
Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal per serving
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Drain and rinse one 15-ounce can of chickpeas. Dice one medium cucumber, finely dice 1/4 cup of red onion, and slice 1/4 cup of pitted Kalamata olives. Chop 1/3 cup of dried cherries and 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley. Crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, combine 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the mixture is emulsified.
- Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, olives, dried cherries, and crumbled feta. Pour the dressing over the top.
- Toss and Marinate: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, stir in the fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines in many settings. Serve it as a hearty, protein-packed main course for a light lunch. It’s an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. For a portable meal, pack it in a container or stuff it into a pita pocket with a handful of fresh greens. You can also serve it over a bed of crisp romaine or mixed greens to stretch it further.
How-to Summary
Combine chickpeas, feta, cherries, cucumber, onion, and olives. Whisk olive oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Toss everything together, garnish with parsley, and let marinate for 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Absolutely. Use 2 cups of cooked chickpeas. Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight, then simmer for 60-90 minutes until tender.
What can I substitute for dried cherries? Dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or raisins work well. For a less sweet option, try sun-dried tomatoes.
How long does this salad keep in the fridge? Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, though the cucumber may soften slightly.
Is this recipe easily doubled for a crowd? Yes, it scales perfectly. Simply double all ingredients and use a very large bowl for mixing.
Can I make this vegan? Yes. Omit the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan alternative. Consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy note.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Rinsing Canned Chickpeas: Always rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove the starchy liquid, which can affect the dressing’s texture and flavor.
- Skipping the Marinating Time: The 30-minute rest in the fridge is crucial for the flavors to fully develop and penetrate the chickpeas.
- Over-mixing the Feta: Add the feta cheese gently when tossing to prevent it from becoming a mushy paste.
- Using Balsamic Vinegar: Stick with red wine vinegar for its bright, sharp acidity. Balsamic can be too sweet and will darken the salad.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures, combining creamy feta, sweet cherries, and briny olives in a simple, herbaceous dressing. It’s a nutritious, make-ahead dish that proves healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying. With its straightforward preparation and versatile serving options, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection.
