Mediterranean Chickpea Salad 

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, nutritious, and refreshingly simple dish that brings together the wholesome flavors of the Mediterranean. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and creamy feta cheese, it's perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a meal prep option. With its bright colors and fresh ingredients, this salad not only delights the palate but also offers a healthy boost.

Ingredients

• 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• 1 medium cucumber, diced

• 8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water to remove excess sodium and the canning liquid. Set aside to drain completely.

2. Chop the Vegetables: Thinly slice the red onion, dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Roughly chop the fresh parsley.

3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained chickpeas, sliced red onion, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine.

4. Add the Feta Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and toss gently to incorporate.

5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss again to ensure all ingredients are well coated.

6. Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal

• Protein: 10g

• Total Fat: 10g

• Saturated Fat: 2g

• Cholesterol: 10mg

• Sodium: 300mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 25g

• Dietary Fiber: 6g

• Sugars: 5g