Description
A refreshing and healthy Chickpea Cucumber Salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is quick to prepare, nutritious, and customizable with optional feta cheese or avocado.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional
- Crumbled feta cheese or diced avocado, for serving
Instructions
- Combine the salad ingredients: In a large bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. Gently mix to combine all the fresh ingredients evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar (if using), dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is well emulsified and balanced in flavor.
- Toss the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill and serve: Allow the salad to rest for 10 to 15 minutes in the refrigerator so the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally topped with crumbled feta cheese or diced avocado for extra creaminess.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Adding diced avocado just before serving enhances creaminess and nutrition.
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor; cilantro can be used for a different twist.
