Imagine a salad that's not just a side dish, but a flavor explosion that transports you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece! Our Balsamic Chickpea Feta Greek Salad is more than just a meal - it's a culinary adventure that combines protein-packed chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and tangy feta cheese in a dance of Mediterranean flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or just looking for a quick, delicious meal that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the fresh ingredients. Rinse and drain the can of chickpeas thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess sodium and preservatives. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, wash the cherry tomatoes under cold water. Cut each tomato in half and add them to the bowl with the chickpeas.
- Take the cucumber and wash it well. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that the skin is either peeled or left on according to your preference. Add the diced cucumber to the mixing bowl.
- Now, prepare the red onion. Peel and dice the red onion into small pieces. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the salad. Add the diced red onion to the bowl.
- Next, crumble the feta cheese into small pieces and add it to the mixing bowl. The feta will add a creamy texture and salty flavor to the salad.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to start with a small amount of salt and pepper, as the feta cheese is already salty.
- Once everything is mixed well, let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done while you set the table or prepare any additional sides.
- Serve the Balsamic Chickpea Feta Greek Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Tips
- Chickpea Pro Tip: Always rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly to reduce sodium and remove any tinny taste. Pat them dry for the best texture.
- Freshness is Key: Use the freshest vegetables you can find. Farm-fresh cherry tomatoes and crisp cucumbers will elevate your salad from good to extraordinary.
- Feta Matters: Choose a high-quality, authentic Greek feta for the most authentic flavor. Opt for sheep's milk feta if possible.
- Dressing Hack: For an extra flavor boost, let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the balsamic vinaigrette to marinate the ingredients.
- Customization Options: Feel free to add kalamata olives or fresh herbs like oregano or mint to personalize your salad.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be prepared in advance and keeps well in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
