This Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavor of chickpeas with the creamy tang of feta cheese and the freshness of crisp vegetables. Tossed in a zesty lemon-oregano dressing, it's a perfect side dish or light meal, ideal for warm days and meal prep. Ready in under 20 minutes, this salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed (approximately 850g / 3 cups)
  
  

• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped (approximately 75g)
  
  

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (approximately 150g)
  
  

• 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced (approximately 200g)
  
  

• ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (approximately 80g)
  
  

• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (approximately 115g)
  
  

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (approximately 30g)
  
  

• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped (approximately 30g)
  
  

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil (approximately 60ml)
  
  

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (approximately 45ml)
  
  

• 1 clove garlic, minced
  
  

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the dressing adhere better.

2. Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Peel, seed, and dice the cucumber. Halve the Kalamata olives. Freshly chopped vegetables add the best flavor and texture to this salad.
   
   

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure the dressing is well emulsified for the best flavor distribution.
   
   

4. Combine and Toss: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, parsley, and mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Be careful not to overmix to avoid crushing the feta cheese.
   
   

5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill for later. The salad tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together in the refrigerator. Garnish with extra feta and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 14g
  
  

• Fat: 18g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 35g
  
  

• Fiber: 8g
  
  

• Sugar: 5g
  
  

• Sodium: 600mg