Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – Christian News Journal

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Embark on a culinary journey to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with our vibrant and nutritious Mediterranean Chickpea Salad. Bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will invigorate your senses and satisfy your cravings. Tender chickpeas, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese come together in a symphony of colors and flavors, elevated by a zesty dressing of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and fragrant herbs. This salad isn’t just a meal – it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Whether enjoyed as a light dinner option or a refreshing side dish, our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad promises to transport you to the shores of the Mediterranean with every bite, leaving you feeling nourished, energized, and utterly satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 English cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. If desired, add slices of grilled chicken or tofu to the salad for extra protein.
6. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
7. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chickpea Salad as a satisfying and healthy dinner option!

This salad is packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, along with plenty of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. The tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor, while the feta cheese provides a creamy texture and a hint of saltiness. It’s a perfect dish for a light and nutritious dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Danielle Dolin is a prolific writer and serves as the Managing Editor at the Christian News Journal. A dedicated mother of four daughters, she calls Southern Arizona home. Danielle’s passion for journalism extends beyond her professional role; she imparts her knowledge to homeschool students as a dedicated teacher. In her cherished moments of respite, you can find her engrossed in the pages of books or engaged in the world of video games. Her multifaceted life is a testament to her commitment to family, education, and her unwavering love for storytelling.