Description
This Chickpea Beet Feta Salad with Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish combining earthy cooked beets, protein-rich chickpeas, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed in a bright and tangy lemon-garlic dressing, this salad offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 medium cooked beets, peeled and diced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium and preservatives. Peel and dice the cooked beets into bite-sized pieces. Crumble the feta cheese if not pre-crumbled. Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor.
- Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference for acidity and seasoning.
- Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, gently toss the chickpeas, diced beets, and crumbled feta cheese together to combine evenly without breaking up the ingredients.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon-garlic vinaigrette over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients well with the dressing, ensuring balanced flavor throughout.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor if desired. Serve the salad immediately or chill it for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld for a refreshing taste.
Notes
- You can use roasted or boiled beets depending on your preference and availability.
- For a vegan option, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit it.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Feel free to add other fresh herbs such as dill or mint for extra flavor complexity.
- Adjust lemon juice and garlic amounts to suit your taste for tanginess and pungency.
Keywords: chickpea salad, beet salad, feta cheese salad, lemon garlic dressing, Mediterranean salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad