Mediterranean chickpea salad with feta cheese

This Mediterranean chickpea salad combines fresh vegetables, creamy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, making it a nutritious choice for a light meal or a side dish. Bursting with vibrant flavors, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

06 Dec 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 cups chickpeas
2 tomatoes
1 onion
1/2 cucumber
1/4 cup olives
1 cup feta cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 spearmint leaf
1 tsp coriander leaves
Mediterranean chickpea salad with feta cheese

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful chickpea salad featuring feta cheese. Packed with fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing, this salad is both nutritious and delicious, perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the tomatoes and cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Finely chop the onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and cucumber.
- Slice the olives and add them to the vegetable mixture.
2. Mix the Chickpeas:
- Add the cooked or canned (rinsed and drained) chickpeas to the bowl with the vegetables.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice until combined.
- Finely chop the spearmint leaf and coriander leaves and stir them into the dressing.

4. Combine the Ingredients:
- Pour the dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure the vegetables and chickpeas are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Add the Feta Cheese:
- Crumble the feta cheese over the salad and gently fold it in, being careful not to break up the cheese too much.

6. Season to Taste:
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt as the feta and olives may already be quite salty.

7. Serve:
- Let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a main dish or side dish.

Ready in just a few minutes, this Mediterranean chickpea salad with feta cheese is a wonderfully fresh and tangy dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy the combination of textures and flavors, and feel free to experiment with additional herbs or ingredients to make it your own.

Mediterranean chickpea salad with feta cheese FAQ:

How long can I store Mediterranean chickpea salad in the fridge?

You can store the Mediterranean chickpea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to enjoy it within 1-2 days.

Can I substitute lemon juice with vinegar in the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute lemon juice with vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly, so adjust the amount to taste.

What pan size do I need for mixing the salad?

A large mixing bowl is ideal for combining the ingredients in this salad. Make sure it's big enough to allow for easy tossing of all the ingredients without spilling.

How do I know if my chickpeas are cooked properly?

If using dried chickpeas, they should be soaked overnight and then boiled until tender, typically for 1-1.5 hours. If using canned chickpeas, ensure they are rinsed and drained well before adding to the salad.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can use other cheeses such as goat cheese or ricotta for different flavors. Keep in mind that the texture and saltiness may vary, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Tips:

- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.

- If possible, allow the salad to sit for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

- You can use any type of olives you prefer; Kalamata olives work particularly well.

- For a creamier texture, consider using crumbled goat cheese instead of feta.

- Adjust the lemon juice and olive oil according to your taste preferences.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 490kcal
Protein 24g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 14g
Sugar 14g
Fat 30g

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