Mediterranean Chickpea Salad


Packed with chickpeas, feta, and fresh veggies, this Mediterranean chickpea salad is a must-try for any meal or snack.


Published: January 25, 2025 · Modified: January 25, 2025 by Jennifer Ryan


Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

There’s something about the Mediterranean way of cooking, it’s vibrant, simple, and so full of life. One of my absolute favorite dishes that embodies this is my Mediterranean chickpea salad. Every time I make it, I’m reminded why I fell in love with this recipe, it’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and incredibly healthy. Whether I’m serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a light meal, this salad never fails to impress.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Why You’ll Love Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This dish is all about balance. The tender chickpeas provide a hearty base, while the juicy cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers add freshness and crunch. The red onion brings a bit of zing, the parsley adds a herby brightness, and the salty, creamy feta ties everything together beautifully. Then there’s the balsamic vinaigrette, a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that enhances every single ingredient. For me, it’s not just a salad, it’s an experience. Every bite takes me back to sun-drenched coastal towns and leisurely meals by the sea.

My Go-To for Busy Days

What I love most about this Mediterranean chickpea salad is how easy it is to throw together. On busy days, it’s my savior. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a quick shake of the dressing jar, I’ve got a dish that feels like a treat but requires minimal effort.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Pro Tips for the Best Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Letting the salad rest after mixing makes a huge difference. When you allow the flavors to meld together for 30 minutes or so, the chickpeas soak up the vinaigrette, and every ingredient becomes more flavorful. It’s a small step that elevates the dish.
I also love experimenting with toppings. A handful of toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of sumac can add a unique twist.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Perfect Pairings

This salad is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even as part of a mezze platter with hummus and pitta. It’s also a star on its own, especially when I want something light yet satisfying.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Jennifer Ryan
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor! This Mediterranean chickpea salad is the perfect side dish or light meal. Ready in minutes!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 319 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
 
 

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

Chickpea Salad:

  • 250 Grams Chickpeas drained and dried
  • 150 Grams Cherry tomatoes chopped
  • 1 Small Red onion chopped
  • 150 Grams Cucumber 1 cup (cubed)
  • 100 Grams Feta cheese crumbled
  • 15 Grams Parsley 1/2 cup (chopped)

Instructions
 

  • Make the dressing by combining the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and black pepper in a jar.
    60 Milliliters Extra virgin olive oil, 1 Tablespoon Lemon juice, 1 Tablespoon Balsamic vinegar, 1 Teaspoon Dijon mustard, Pinch Sea salt, Pinch Ground black pepper
    Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
  • Seal the jar and shake vigorously until well blended.
    Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, red onion, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
    250 Grams Chickpeas, 150 Grams Cherry tomatoes, 1 Small Red onion, 150 Grams Cucumber, 100 Grams Feta cheese, 15 Grams Parsley
    Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
  • Pour the vinaigrette over the salad. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated in the dressing.
    Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
  • For an even more flavorful salad, cover and let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour, allowing the ingredients to marinate and the flavors to meld.
    Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
  • Serve at room temperature or chilled, and enjoy!
    Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Notes

Tips and Tricks
  • For the best texture, dry the chickpeas thoroughly after draining to prevent excess moisture in the salad.
  • Use freshly chopped herbs for maximum flavor. Flat-leaf parsley works beautifully here.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your preference, a touch more salt or pepper can enhance the dish if needed.
  • Feel free to add extras like olives, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added Mediterranean flair.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the cucumbers may lose their crunch over time.

Nutrition

Calories: 319kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 10gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 22mgSodium: 312mgPotassium: 401mgFiber: 6gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 650IUVitamin C: 19mgCalcium: 177mgIron: 3mg
Keyword chickpeas, easy to make, healthy, healthy eating, healthy lifestyle, healthy lunch, healthy recipe, healthy recipes, salad, summer salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

2 thoughts on “Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

    1. Great question! You can swap the feta with goat cheese or even a plant-based cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Another good substitute is ricotta salata, which has a similar crumbly texture but a milder flavor. Let me know which one you try!

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If you love this salad, you’ll definitely want to check out my other favorites: the wholesome Quinoa Salad, the vibrant Carrot Salad, and the refreshing Watermelon Feta Salad. Each one is as flavorful and easy to make as this Mediterranean gem.

Carrot Salad

Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media! I’d love to see how you’ve made this recipe your own, tag me, and let’s connect over our shared love for fresh, delicious food.