Description
For the Salad:
2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Lemon Zest Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, goat cheese, and parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all .
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy this fresh, tangy Mediterranean-inspired salad!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes Kcal: 250 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and pit and halve the Kalamata olives. Crumble the goat cheese and chop the fresh parsley.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified.
3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and most of the parsley and goat cheese (reserve a little for garnish).
4. Combine and Marinate: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure even coating. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before serving.
5. Final Touch: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with the reserved parsley and goat cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb for a complete meal. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside hummus, warm pita bread, and falafel. It also makes a perfect standalone lunch. Consider stuffing it into a pita pocket with a dollop of tzatziki for a delicious handheld option.
How-to Summary
Quickly combine rinsed chickpeas with fresh veggies, olives, cheese, and parsley. Whisk together a simple lemon zest dressing, toss everything together, and let it chill briefly to meld the bright, Mediterranean flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the goat cheese and final garnish just before serving to maintain its texture.
What can I use instead of goat cheese? Feta cheese is an excellent substitute for a more traditional Greek flavor. For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or use a vegan feta alternative.
How do I properly zest a lemon? Use a fine grater or microplane and gently grate only the bright yellow outer peel, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath.
Are canned chickpeas cooked? Yes, canned chickpeas are fully cooked and ready to eat. Draining and rinsing them removes excess sodium and the starchy liquid from the can.
How can I make this salad more filling? Add 1 cup of cooked quinoa, farro, or orzo pasta to transform it into a hearty grain bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using dried parsley instead of fresh, as it lacks the necessary vibrant flavor. Do not skip the step of rinsing the canned chickpeas, as the canning liquid can muddy the dressing’s taste. Be careful not to over-mix the salad once the goat cheese is added, as it can break down and become too creamy. Finally, ensure your lemon juice is freshly squeezed for the brightest, tangiest dressing.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a celebration of fresh, vibrant ingredients coming together with minimal effort. The zesty lemon dressing perfectly complements the creamy chickpeas and tangy goat cheese, creating a dish that is both nutritious and deeply satisfying. It’s a reliable recipe for a quick weekday lunch or an impressive side dish for entertaining. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in just minutes.
