Refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Delight
This vibrant Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Delight is a perfect harmony of fresh ingredients that come together to create a nourishing and delicious dish. Bursting with the flavors of ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and aromatic herbs, this salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a satisfying crunch in every bite. With the added richness of mozzarella cheese and a light balsamic vinaigrette, it serves as a fantastic side to your favorite entrees or as a delightful main when enjoyed on a bed of mixed greens. Ideal for picnics, BBQs, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad can be made in minutes, leaving plenty of time for chilling in the refrigerator to meld the flavors and enhance the taste. Give your meals a Mediterranean twist with this simple yet flavorful salad that anyone can enjoy!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
chickpeas
15 ounces (rinsed and drained)
cucumber
1 (finely chopped)
grape tomatoes
1 cup (halved)
sweet onion
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
fresh parsley
1 1/2 tablespoons (minced)
fresh basil
2 tablespoons (chopped)
mozzarella cheese
4 ounces (cubed)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (none)
balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
sea salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
mixed salad greens
4 cups (optional, for serving)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the rinsed chickpeas, finely chopped cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, sweet onion, minced garlic, parsley, basil, and cubed mozzarella cheese.
2
Drizzle the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt over the salad mixture.
3
Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5
When ready to serve, either enjoy the salad as is or place it on a generous bed of mixed salad greens for a heartier option.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein source in the Refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Delight?
The main protein source is chickpeas, specifically a 15-ounce portion that is rinsed and drained.
Is this Mediterranean Chickpea Salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains chickpeas, vegetables, herbs, and mozzarella cheese.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 12 total ingredients, including the optional mixed salad greens used for serving.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 ounces of cubed mozzarella cheese to add a rich texture to the salad.
How long should I refrigerate the salad before serving?
It is recommended to refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
What kind of dressing is used for this chickpea salad?
The dressing is a simple balsamic vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and sea salt.
Can I serve this salad as a main course?
Yes, it can be served as a delightful main when enjoyed on a generous bed of 4 cups of mixed salad greens.
What fresh herbs are included in the recipe?
The salad features aromatic fresh parsley and fresh chopped basil.
How should the cucumber be prepared?
One cucumber should be finely chopped to ensure a crunchy texture in every bite.
What type of onion works best for this salad?
The recipe specifies 1/4 cup of finely chopped sweet onion for a mild flavor.
Is there garlic in this Mediterranean salad?
Yes, one minced garlic clove is included to enhance the aromatic profile of the dish.
What kind of tomatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of grape tomatoes, halved.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe featuring fresh ingredients and nutrient-dense chickpeas.
Is this salad good for outdoor gatherings?
Absolutely, it is described as ideal for picnics and is a perfect BBQ side dish.
How much olive oil is needed for the dressing?
You will need 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
What is the recommended amount of balsamic vinegar?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar.
How much sea salt should be added?
The recipe suggests adding 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, or to taste.
How do I mix the ingredients?
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and gently toss until they are well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
Do I need to cook any of the ingredients?
No, this is a no-cook recipe that relies on fresh and pre-prepared ingredients.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick and easy recipe that can be assembled in minutes.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make it vegan, you can simply omit the mozzarella cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
What makes this salad 'Mediterranean'?
The use of chickpeas, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh basil provides its classic Mediterranean flavor profile.
How should I store the salad while it's chilling?
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or a lid before placing it in the refrigerator.
How many cups of mixed salad greens are suggested for serving?
The recipe recommends using 4 cups of mixed salad greens if you choose to serve the salad over a bed of greens.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes, the salad is designed to be made ahead of time as the 1-hour chilling period is essential for flavor development.
What is the texture of the salad?
The salad offers a satisfying crunch from the cucumbers and onions, contrasted with the soft chickpeas and creamy mozzarella.
How much fresh parsley is required?
You should use 1 1/2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley.
How much fresh basil is required?
You should use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
Is this recipe suitable for a light meal?
Yes, it is specifically described as a light meal option that is both nourishing and delicious.
Can I use different types of onions?
While sweet onion is recommended for its mildness, you can use red onion for a sharper bite if preferred.