Mediterranean Chickpea and Tomato Delight
This vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean chickpea salad is a perfect combination of earthy chickpeas, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. Enhanced with zesty lemon dressing and aromatic oregano, it's an ideal dish for a light lunch or a side at your next picnic. Preparing it a day ahead enhances its flavors, making it even more irresistible.
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
canned chickpeas
1/4 cup (rinsed and drained)
cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup (quartered)
feta cheese
1/4 cup (crumbled)
fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
olive oil
2 teaspoons
dried oregano
1 teaspoon
salt
1/8 teaspoon
pepper
1 pinch (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Start by rinsing and draining the chickpeas thoroughly.
2
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chickpeas, quartered cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
3
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground pepper until well mixed.
4
Pour the lemon dressing over the chickpea mixture and gently toss all the ingredients to ensure they are evenly coated.
5
Let the salad sit for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, or refrigerate overnight for even better taste.
6
Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mediterranean Chickpea and Tomato Delight?
It is a vibrant and refreshing salad featuring earthy chickpeas, juicy cherry tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese in a lemon-oregano dressing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe as it contains only beans, vegetables, and dairy.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This specific recipe is portioned to provide one serving.
Do I need to cook the canned chickpeas?
No, the canned chickpeas are already cooked; you only need to rinse and drain them before adding them to the salad.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, preparing it a day ahead is actually encouraged as it allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste.
What are the components of the salad dressing?
The dressing is a whisked mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground pepper.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned ones?
Yes, but you will need to soak and boil the dried chickpeas until tender before using them in this recipe.
How should I store leftovers of this salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Is this Mediterranean salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including chickpeas, vegetables, and feta, are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add other fresh herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely, fresh parsley, mint, or basil would make excellent additions to the aromatic profile of this dish.
What is the best way to prepare the feta cheese?
The feta should be crumbled into small pieces so it can be evenly distributed throughout the salad.
Is this recipe considered a healthy meal?
Yes, it is nutrient-dense, providing plant-based protein from chickpeas, healthy fats from olive oil, and vitamins from fresh produce.
Can I substitute cherry tomatoes with other types?
Yes, you can use diced Roma or beefsteak tomatoes if cherry tomatoes are not available.
Is this dish good for a picnic?
Yes, it is an ideal picnic dish because it holds up well at room temperature and does not wilt like leafy greens.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free vegan cheese alternative.
Can I add extra protein to this salad?
Yes, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even canned tuna would complement the flavors and make it more filling.
How long should the salad rest before serving?
It is recommended to let the salad sit for at least 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature to allow the dressing to coat everything thoroughly.
Is it possible to freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the texture of the tomatoes and the feta cheese will change significantly upon thawing.
What can I serve with this chickpea salad?
It works well as a side dish for grilled meats or can be stuffed into a pita pocket for a quick lunch.
Is fresh lemon juice necessary?
Fresh lemon juice provides a zesty brightness that is central to the recipe, though bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
How do I prepare the chickpeas from the can?
Simply pour them into a colander, rinse under cold running water, and let them drain well before use.
Can I use a different oil besides olive oil?
While olive oil is traditional for Mediterranean dishes, avocado oil or another neutral salad oil can be substituted.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, the recipe as written is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
How should the cherry tomatoes be sliced?
The recipe recommends quartering the cherry tomatoes to ensure they are bite-sized and can release their juices into the mix.
Can I use different seasonings?
Yes, while oregano is traditional, you could experiment with dried thyme or a Mediterranean herb blend.
What is the main flavor profile of this salad?
The flavor profile is tangy, savory, and aromatic, highlighted by the lemon juice and dried oregano.
Can I scale this recipe for more than one person?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the measurements to serve a larger group.
Does this salad contain any nuts?
No, this recipe is naturally nut-free.
What is a good substitute for dried oregano?
Dried marjoram or Italian seasoning are the closest substitutes for dried oregano in this context.
Can I serve this salad at room temperature?
Yes, it can be served either chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.