Description
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the vinaigrette.
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, dried cranberries, red onion, parsley, and toasted almonds.
Drizzle the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cooking Time: 0 minutes, Total Time: 10 minutes, Kcal: 280 per serving, Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect chickpea salad. First, thoroughly drain and rinse the canned chickpeas in a colander. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the dressing cling better. While the chickpeas dry, finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley. For the almonds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, then let them cool before adding to the salad.
Next, prepare the lemon vinaigrette. In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Whisk vigorously as you add the honey and Dijon mustard to create an emulsion. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, whisking until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened.
In your large mixing bowl, combine the dried chickpeas, crumbled feta, dried cranberries, chopped red onion, parsley, and cooled toasted almonds. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the top. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated. Avoid over-mixing to keep the chickpeas and feta intact.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in several ways. Serve it as a bright, protein-packed side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. For a complete vegetarian meal, spoon it over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens, or stuff it into a pita pocket with a handful of arugula. It also makes an excellent make-ahead lunch; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Rinse and dry chickpeas. Toast almonds. Whisk oil, lemon juice, honey, mustard, and seasonings for the dressing. Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently. Chill briefly before serving for best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. If you don’t have feta, crumbled goat cheese or even grated Parmesan are excellent substitutes that offer a similar salty, tangy profile.
How can I make this salad ahead of time? You can prep all components up to a day in advance. Store the chopped vegetables, dressing, and dry ingredients separately. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Is there a substitute for dried cranberries? Absolutely. Chopped dried apricots, cherries, or even raisins will provide a similar sweet and chewy contrast to the savory elements.
How do I make this recipe vegan? Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative. Replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I use canned beans other than chickpeas? White beans (cannellini) or black beans work well, though the flavor and texture will change slightly. Ensure they are drained and rinsed thoroughly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using warm, freshly toasted almonds directly in the salad, as they can wilt the parsley. Always let them cool first. Do not skip drying the chickpeas, as excess water will dilute the flavorful vinaigrette. When tossing the salad, be gentle to prevent the chickpeas from getting mashed and the feta from turning the entire mixture pink.
Conclusion
This Chickpea and Feta Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly extraordinary dish. With its perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy elements, it’s a reliable recipe for busy weeknights, elegant gatherings, and healthy lunches alike. Mastering the easy vinaigrette and assembly technique opens the door to endless customization. Give it a try and enjoy a burst of fresh, satisfying flavor in every bite.
