Description
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup dried cranberries
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts (optional)
Citrus Dressing:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
½ tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, dried cranberries, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Top with toasted almonds or walnuts if using.
Serve immediately or let it sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 10 minutes Kcal: 250 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Prepare Ingredients: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and chop the fresh parsley. Crumble the feta cheese if not pre-crumbled.
- Toast Nuts (Optional): In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the almonds or walnuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Seal the jar and shake vigorously until the mixture is well emulsified.
- Combine Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, dried cranberries, and parsley. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Dress and Finish: Pour the citrus dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything. Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and toasted nuts last to prevent them from getting soggy or crushed.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be enjoyed in several ways:
- As a light, standalone lunch.
- As a vibrant side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
- Scooped into pita pockets or wraps for a portable meal.
- Served over a bed of leafy greens like spinach or arugula for extra volume.
- Paired with a hearty soup for a more complete dinner.
How-to Summary
Quickly rinse and chop your vegetables. Shake the simple citrus dressing in a jar. Combine everything in a large bowl, adding the feta and nuts last. Toss gently and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, but for best texture, add the dressing, nuts, and feta cheese just before serving. You can prep all components separately up to a day in advance.
What can I use instead of feta cheese? For a dairy-free or different flavor profile, try cubed avocado, vegan feta, or salty olives like Kalamata.
How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become softer as it sits.
Can I use a different bean? Absolutely. White beans, black beans, or lentils would all be excellent, protein-rich substitutes for the chickpeas.
Is there a substitute for the honey in the dressing? Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar work perfectly for a vegan version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not rinsing the chickpeas: Always rinse canned chickpeas to remove the starchy liquid and improve flavor.
- Over-mixing after adding feta: Fold the feta in gently to keep it from turning the entire salad pink and mushy.
- Skipping the toasting step for nuts: Toasting nuts is crucial for unlocking their deep, rich flavor and adding crunch.
- Adding dressing too early: If preparing in advance, dress the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Conclusion
This Chickpea and Feta Salad with Citrus Dressing is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. It’s a perfect balance of protein, fresh vegetables, tangy cheese, and sweet fruit, all brought together by a bright, homemade dressing. Whether you need a quick weekday lunch or a stunning side dish, this recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of Mediterranean-inspired taste in every bite.