This refreshing salad features zesty lemon juice, tasty chickpeas, and creamy feta cheese. It’s a perfect dish for a sunny picnic or a light lunch!
Honestly, who can resist that little burst of citrus? I love tossing in some fresh herbs too; they add a pop of color and flavor. It’s so quick to prepare, I often make it on busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: The star of the salad! I love using canned chickpeas for convenience. If fresh or dried chickpeas are your preference, just remember to cook them until tender before adding them in.
Feta Cheese: This adds creaminess and saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, consider using plant-based feta alternatives, or simply skip it for a lighter version.
Red Onion: It gives a crunchy texture and a nice bite. If red onions are too strong for you, try green onions or a mild white onion instead.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness. You can swap it with fresh mint or cilantro if you prefer those flavors. They pair well too!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
To achieve a well-mixed and flavorful salad, the dressing is key! Make sure you whisk it well so all ingredients are combined. Here’s a simple way to combine everything:
- Start with the chickpeas in a large bowl and ensure they’re well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Gently fold in feta, onion, and parsley to keep the feta from breaking apart too much.
- Pour the lemon dressing evenly over the salad and use a spatula or large spoon to mix gently, making sure everything is coated.
- Let it sit for about 30 minutes in the fridge. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
By following these simple steps, you’ll end up with a delicious, balanced salad every time!
Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
Estimated Time Needed:
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you want the flavors to blend nicely, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Total time: around 40 minutes, including chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed chickpeas, cubed feta cheese, chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Gently mix them together so they are combined but still intact.
2. Make the Lemon Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until everything is fully combined and the dressing is smooth.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the delicious lemon dressing over the chickpea mixture in the large bowl. Now, gently toss everything together with a spatula or wooden spoon until the salad is evenly coated.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a taste! If you think it needs more flavor, feel free to add a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your palate.
5. Garnish and Serve:
For the finishing touch, garnish with lemon wedges if you like. You can serve it right away or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This chill time will help the flavors meld beautifully!
Enjoy this fresh, tangy salad as a light lunch or a vibrant side dish at your next gathering!
FAQ for Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook them in boiling water until tender. This should take around 1-1.5 hours. Just make sure they’re cooled before adding them to the salad.
Is There a Substitute for Feta Cheese?
Yes! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan feta or crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and herbs for a similar texture. For a lower-calorie version, you can skip the cheese altogether.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but keep in mind that the salad may become a little softer over time.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. You can add diced cucumber, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to keep the vegetable sizes consistent for even mixing.
