This bright and zesty salad features crunchy chickpeas, creamy feta, and a refreshing lemon dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish!
Honestly, I could eat this salad every day and never get tired of it. The lemon kick just makes everything come to life. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up—win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are super convenient, but if you prefer cooking from scratch, you can use dried chickpeas. Just soak them overnight and cook until tender. They add a nice, fresh texture!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy, salty taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice and salt for a similar flavor.
Red Onion: The red onion adds crunch and a sharp flavor. If you want something milder, try using green onions or shallots instead. Soak the onions in cold water for 10 minutes to soften their bite.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is a must for brightness. If you don’t have a lemon, lime juice works well too. Or use vinegar for a tangy twist, like apple cider or red wine vinegar.
How Do I Ensure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
To make sure the dressing coats everything evenly, it’s important to mix the salad gently. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine the chickpeas, feta, onion, and parsley in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss with a large spoon, ensuring everything is coated without smashing the feta.
- Taste the salad after a gentle mix. If you feel it needs more seasoning, adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
Letting the salad sit for 15-30 minutes helps flavor meld together, making each bite more delicious!
Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup feta cheese, diced or cubed
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and can chill for an additional 15-30 minutes if you want it to soak in more flavor. So, in just about 10 minutes, you can have a fresh, tasty salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by gathering your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together without mashing the feta.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or a measuring cup, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix it until the dressing is well combined and smooth.
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the lemon dressing over the chickpea mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently to make sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, being careful not to break up the feta too much.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste the salad! If it needs a little more flavor, sprinkle in more salt, black pepper, or even some extra lemon juice according to your preference. Adjust until it’s just right.
5. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you like, garnish with lemon wedges for an extra splash of color and zest!
There you have it! This refreshing salad delivers a lovely contrast of creamy feta, bright lemon, and hearty chickpeas—a quick and healthy dish perfect for any occasion! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Lemony Chickpea Feta Salad
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas or Dried Chickpeas?
Canned chickpeas are convenient and save time, but you can also use dried chickpeas! Just remember to soak them overnight and cook until tender for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta or crumbled tofu. You can also enhance the tofu’s flavor with a splash of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the chickpeas may soak up the dressing over time, so give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra crunch and color. Just chop them small so they mix well!
