Chickpea Cucumber Salad

I remember one summer afternoon when I was craving something light yet satisfying and I stumbled upon a few leftover ingredients in my fridge so I decided to get creative with chickpeas and cucumbers and something magical happened. The first bite was so refreshing and so hearty that I immediately knew this would become a warm-weather staple in my kitchen.

Chickpea cucumber salad has been my go-to ever since then especially when I want something quick and healthy and also a little tangy and creamy too. With each bite I get the crunch of fresh cucumber and the creamy bite of feta all wrapped up in a zesty dressing and this dish never fails to bring brightness to my table.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Chickpeas – A hearty and protein-rich base that keeps the salad satisfying.
• Cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch and light flavor.
• Feta cheese – Brings a creamy and salty contrast to the crisp veggies.
• Fresh parsley – Adds a touch of freshness and color.
• Olive oil – Helps to blend and coat all the flavors beautifully.
• Lemon juice – Adds zing and brightness to the salad.
• Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the ingredients.
• Black pepper – Adds a bit of sharpness and balance.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Cutting board – For chopping cucumbers and herbs.
• Sharp knife – To get clean and even slices of cucumber and crumbled feta.
• Large mixing bowl – So I can toss everything together without spills.
• Can opener – To easily open the can of chickpeas.
• Colander – I use this to rinse and drain the chickpeas.
• Measuring spoons – For getting the dressing ingredients just right.
• Spoon or salad tongs – To mix the salad gently without breaking the feta.

Instructions

Step 1:

I begin by draining and rinsing the canned chickpeas in a colander. I let them sit for a few minutes to dry out a bit so they don’t water down the salad.

Step 2:

Next, I wash and slice the cucumber into thin rounds. I like to use Persian or English cucumbers because they’re seedless and extra crisp.

Step 3:

I crumble the feta cheese with my fingers or a fork. If you’re using block feta, it adds even more creaminess than the pre-crumbled kind.

Step 4:

In a large bowl, I combine the chickpeas, sliced cucumbers, crumbled feta, and freshly chopped parsley.

Step 5:

For the dressing, I drizzle olive oil and freshly squeezed lemon juice directly over the salad and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6:

I gently toss everything together using salad tongs so the feta doesn’t break too much. Then I serve it right away or chill it for later!

Tips

If you want to mix it up, I recommend adding halved cherry tomatoes or sliced red onion for more color and punch. I’ve also tried this with a bit of crushed garlic or a sprinkle of za’atar seasoning and it was absolutely delicious. When I’m prepping it for a picnic, I pack the dressing separately and mix just before serving to keep everything crisp.

Ways to Serve

Serve it as a light lunch with pita bread on the side.

Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for a wholesome dinner plate.

I also love it as a side dish for BBQs and potlucks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chickpea cucumber salad ahead of time?

Yes absolutely! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

How long does chickpea cucumber salad last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container it stays fresh for 2 to 3 days though the cucumbers are best when eaten sooner.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes! Just cook and cool them first. I do this when I have extra time for prepping.

Is chickpea cucumber salad vegan?

It can be! Simply omit the feta or use a vegan alternative.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this chickpea cucumber salad a try! It’s one of my favorite fresh and fuss-free dishes and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Don’t forget to save it for your next picnic or meal prep day.

Happy Cooking!

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