This Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad is fresh, colorful, and full of tasty flavors! It features hearty chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon dressing that will brighten your day.
Who knew a salad could be so much fun? I love adding a sprinkle of herbs on top for extra flavor. It’s a perfect side dish or a light meal that’s ready in a snap!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are a great time saver, but you can also use cooked dried chickpeas if you have them. Just soak them overnight and cook until tender.
Feta Cheese: Traditional feta adds a nice tang, but if you’re looking for a lower-fat option, look for reduced-fat feta or try crumbled goat cheese instead for a different flavor.
Red Onion: Red onions bring a sweet crunch, but if you prefer a milder taste, use green onions or even shallots. They work well too!
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds freshness, but you can replace it with cilantro for a different twist or even skip it if herbs aren’t your thing.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon is best for flavor. If you’re out, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but adjust the amount to taste.
How Do You Make Sure Your Salad is Well-Mixed?
Tossing the ingredients might seem simple, but it’s crucial for an even flavor. Gently mix the salad in a large bowl, making sure the chickpeas and feta get coated well with the dressing. Here’s how:
- Start by adding the chickpeas and veggies to the bowl.
- Drizzle the dressing over the top, but don’t pour it all at once; it helps control the amount on each ingredient.
- Use two forks or just your hands to fold and toss gently—be careful with the feta as it can break apart!
- Taste a small spoonful before serving; you can always add a bit more dressing or seasoning if needed.
This technique keeps everything flavorful and ensures every bite is delicious! Enjoy your salad with confidence!
Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to assemble, and if you have a little extra time, letting it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes will help the flavors blend even better!
Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix the drained chickpeas, cubed feta cheese, chopped red onion, and parsley. This colorful mix looks great and tastes even better!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until it’s nicely blended.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the lemon dressing over the chickpea mixture. This will add a lovely tangy flavor to the salad.
4. Toss it All Together:
Gently toss everything together using a spatula or large spoon. Make sure each chickpea and piece of feta is coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a little taste! If you think it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, feel free to add a bit more to suit your taste.
6. Optional Garnishing:
If you like, you can add lemon slices on top for decoration before serving. It adds a fresh touch.
7. Serving Suggestions:
You can serve the salad right away, or for the best flavor, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let everything blend together. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side dish or a light, healthy lunch!
Enjoy your delicious Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad!
FAQ for Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad
Can I Use Dried Chickpeas Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! Just soak about 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight and then cook them in boiling water until tender. Drain and let them cool before adding to the salad. This will give you a fresher taste!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the chickpeas may absorb some dressing and lose their crunch over time.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan feta option or avocado for creaminess. The lemon dressing is vegan-friendly as well!
What Should I Serve With This Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a topping for greens. You can also serve it alongside pita bread or a grain like quinoa for a more filling meal!
