Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines vibrant flavors and textures. This salad is quick to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a perfect option for lunch or a light dinner. The combination of creamy avocado, salty feta, and hearty chickpeas creates a satisfying meal that is both filling and refreshing.
Why make this recipe
There are many reasons to love Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. This salad is vegetarian and can be enjoyed by everyone, making it an excellent choice for meals with family or friends. Additionally, it’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it’s a vibrant dish that looks as good as it tastes!
How to prepare Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce/425g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, pitted and diced
- 4 ounces/115g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup/75g red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup/50g fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup/25g fresh mint, chopped
- 3 tablespoons/45ml olive oil
- 2 tablespoons/30ml lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon/2.5ml dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
How to serve Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Once prepared, Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad can be enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or even alongside other salads. You can also serve it on a bed of greens for a complete meal.
How to store Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
To store leftover salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 1-2 days for the freshest taste. If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider adding the dressing fresh before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Tips to make Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad perfectly
- Choose a ripe avocado for the best creaminess.
- Make sure to rinse the chickpeas well to remove any excess salt and foam.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; you can add more lemon juice or herbs if you like.
- For extra crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts.
Variations
Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences:
- Add diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
- Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Include other herbs like basil or cilantro for different flavor notes.
- Mix in cherry tomatoes for a juicy pop!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad and keep it in the fridge for 1-2 days. If possible, add the dressing just before serving to keep the texture fresh.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: To make it vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! If using dried chickpeas, make sure to soak and cook them before adding them to the salad.
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a delightful combination that not only nourishes your body but also pleases your taste buds. Enjoy making this easy and tasty dish!