Description
Chickpea Feta Cucumber Salad
This easy summer salad features canned chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, and salty feta cheese tossed with a homemade red wine vinaigrette. It’s a perfect Mediterranean-inspired side dish that’s healthy, refreshing, and full of protein. Ideal for summer gatherings or as a quick meal on a busy day!
2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
½ cup red onion, diced
1 English cucumber, diced
Red Wine Vinaigrette:
½ cup olive or avocado oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
¼ cup chopped herbs (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic
1 tsp dried parsley
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
Directions:
1. Whisk dressing ingredients together.
2. Combine chickpeas, cucumber, onion, feta, and herbs.
3. Toss with dressing and chill for 2 hours.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 285 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl or jar, combine ½ cup olive oil, ¼ cup red wine vinegar, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp lemon zest, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried parsley, ¼ tsp salt, and ⅛ tsp black pepper. Whisk vigorously or shake in a sealed jar until the mixture is fully emulsified.
2. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced English cucumber, diced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. If using, add ¼ cup of fresh chopped herbs like dill or mint at this stage.
3. Toss and Marinate: Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve: Give the salad a final gentle stir before serving. Adjust seasoning with an extra pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad shines as a side dish at barbecues alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. For a satisfying vegetarian main, serve it over a bed of leafy greens or stuffed into a pita pocket. It also makes a perfect, protein-packed lunch when paired with whole-grain crackers or as a topping for a grain bowl with quinoa or couscous.
How-to Summary
Whisk oil, vinegar, lemon, and spices for the dressing. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, and feta. Pour dressing over the salad, toss to coat, and chill for 2+ hours before serving for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. This salad is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance; the flavors improve as it marinates. Add fresh herbs just before serving for maximum brightness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cucumbers may soften slightly but the salad will remain delicious.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. While feta provides a classic salty tang, you can substitute with cubed halloumi, goat cheese, or even a firm ricotta salata.
Is there a way to make it creamier?
For a creamier texture, add 2-3 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or tahini to the vinaigrette and whisk until smooth.
Can I use dried chickpeas?
Yes. Substitute canned chickpeas with 3 cups of cooked, cooled chickpeas from dried. This allows for better control over texture and seasoning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Rinsing Chickpeas: Always rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove the starchy liquid, which can affect the dressing’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Marinating Time: The 2-hour chill is crucial for the ingredients to absorb the dressing. Serving immediately results in a less cohesive flavor.
- Using a Waxy Cucumber: English or Persian cucumbers are best as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin. If using a standard cucumber, peel and seed it first to prevent a watery salad.
- Over-stirring the Feta: Add crumbled feta gently when tossing to prevent it from becoming mushy and dissolving into the dressing.
Conclusion
This Chickpea Feta Cucumber Salad is more than just a simple side—it’s a reliable, flavorful powerhouse perfect for any occasion. With its high protein content, fresh ingredients, and make-ahead convenience, it effortlessly combines health and taste. Mastering the simple steps and avoiding common pitfalls will ensure you have a stunning, crowd-pleasing dish ready whenever you need it.