Recipe: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

 

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chickpeas:

   • Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel and place them in a large mixing bowl.

2. Assemble the Salad:

   • Add the diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, halved Kalamata olives, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh mint leaves to the bowl with the chickpeas. Toss gently to combine.

3. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

4. Dress the Salad:

   • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing.

5. Add Optional Ingredients:

   • If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently toss to incorporate.

6. Chill (Optional):

   • For best flavor, cover the Mediterranean chickpea salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and nutritious side dish or light meal.

8. Enjoy your delicious Mediterranean Chickpea Salad!