published May 24, 2023, updated May 31, 2023 As a staple food in North African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines, chickpeas are enjoyed in countless ways. We have Mediterranean Hummus, Falafel, and Chickpea Masala, just to name a few. Today’s chickpea salad recipe is a gift from the Mediterranean. This flavorful dish will fill you up without slowing you down. For more hearty salads from the Silk Road, check out this Greek Lentil Salad, Kisir (Turkish Bulgur Salad), or this Ptitim (Israeli Couscous Salad).
INGREDIENT NOTES AND SUBSTITUTIONS
Croutons – Zaatar Spice and olive oil transform humble bread cubes into flavor powerhouses. Dressing – A blend of lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne brightens up the flavors of the entire salad. Chickpeas – These legumes, also known as garbanzo beans, are earthy, nutty, and mildly sweet. Use canned or dried beans, just be sure to convert. About 1.5 cups of dried beans equal roughly 30 oz of canned beans. Persian Cucumbers – Thin skin, low moisture, and tiny seeds make Persian cukes ideal. English hothouses can be substituted. Veggies – Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers add a variety of fresh veggie flavors, textures, and colors. Feta Cheese – Adds a briny sharpness and soft, crumbly texture. Pomegranate Seeds – Add a burst of sweetly tart flavor and a deep reddish-purple hue. Pine Nuts – Toasted pine nuts add a sweet nuttiness and crunch. Check the snacks, nuts, and baking aisles at your supermarket. Finely chopped cashews are the closest substitute if needed. Herbs – Mint, cilantro, and parsley add freshness, complex flavors, and a dazzling splash of deep green. Arugula – I like the pepperiness of arugula but feel free to switch it out for any of your favorite greens.
HOW TO MAKE MEDITERRANEAN CHICKPEA SALAD
TIP: You can make Lebanese za’atar for a lot less money than buying it from a store. Plus, the flavor will be better.
More Tips for Making the Best Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Wait 30 Minutes. Chill your salad in the fridge for a half hour for the best results. It’s the sweet spot where the flavors have set in and the salad still looks fresh and beautiful. Reserve Garnishes. Set aside a small amount of the herbs, feta, pine nuts, and pomegranate seeds to sprinkle on top right before serving. This is optional, of course, but it makes the presentation really pop. Cut Veggies the Same Size. Chopping your cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers as close to uniform as possible will make a more balanced salad. That way, you have better chances of getting all the goodness this chickpea salad recipe has to offer with every forkful.
What Pairs Well With Chickpea Salad?
Mediterranean chickpea salad makes a great starter for all types of dishes from Mediterranean Grilled Chicken and Greek Shrimp Saganaki to Lamb Shawarma (Shredded). For an insanely flavorful vegetarian meal, pair it with some Spanakorizo (Greek Spinach Rice) and Briam (Greek Roasted Vegetables). This chickpea salad also makes a great lunch or snack option. Enjoy it as is or toss in some tuna or chicken for added protein.
Can I Make This Chickpea Salad Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make Mediterranean chickpea salad ahead of time, but with a few caveats. Once this salad is fully mixed up, it will last in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. After that, it will likely start to break down and won’t look incredibly appealing. To prepare chickpea salad ahead of time, chop up your vegetables 1-2 days ahead of time. The dressing can be made up to a week ahead of time. Keep the veggies, dressing, and cheese separate. About 30 minutes before serving, toss the chickpeas, vegetables, herbs, seeds, and nuts with the dressing and feta cheese. With all the prep work you’ve already done, your chickpea salad will come together in under 5 minutes!
