Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a vibrant and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch, a flavorful side for dinner, or a delightful snack, this salad brings together the rich creaminess of avocado, the tangy goodness of feta, and the hearty texture of chickpeas in a delightful harmony. I’ve personally made this salad numerous times, and it never fails to impress with its bright flavors and satisfying crunch.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is a must-try for several reasons! Firstly, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry. You only need about 15 minutes to have everything fresh and ready to go. Additionally, it’s a budget-friendly dish that packs a punch of nutrition without breaking the bank. The combination of chickpeas and feta not only provides wonderful flavor but also adds a hefty dose of protein, making this salad a filling choice.
Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home, it’s also a crowd-pleaser, especially for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diets. You might find a new family favorite!
"This salad was a hit at my BBQ! So fresh and tasty—I can’t believe it was so easy to make!" – Emily, satisfied home cook.
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a straightforward process that involves combining fresh ingredients and dressing them with a homemade vinaigrette. You’ll start by gathering your ingredients, mix the salad components, then whip up the dressing, and finally, toss everything together. It’s as simple as that!
What you’ll need
For this delicious salad, gather the following 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) fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to customize the ingredients based on personal preferences. If you’re looking to reduce dairy, try using a vegan feta alternative. For an extra crunch, consider adding some diced cucumber or bell peppers!
Directions to follow
- Start by combining the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season this dressing with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss all components until they’re well coated.
- Serve your Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad immediately, or chill it in the fridge to enhance the flavors for later enjoyment.
How to plate and pair
When it comes to serving, presentation is key! You can serve this salad in a large bowl for family-style dining, or plate individual servings with a sprinkle of extra feta and fresh herbs on top for an impressive touch. Consider pairing it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or feature it on a buffet table during your next gathering.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftovers is simple. Transfer any remaining salad to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days. However, if you find the avocado has started to brown, a splash of lemon juice will help maintain its vibrant color. While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can also store the components separately and mix them as needed to maintain the freshness of the avocado.
Pro chef tips
For best results, choose ripe avocados that are slightly soft to the touch. This will enhance the creaminess of the salad. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chickpeas can save you a few minutes. Lastly, for a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing!
Creative twists
Feel free to get experimental with this Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad. Substitute the feta with crumbled goat cheese for a tangy twist, or add sliced radishes for an additional crunch. You could also switch fresh mint with cilantro for a different flavor profile, giving it an exciting Mediterranean touch.
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare this salad?
Preparation is quick and easy! You can have it ready in about 15 minutes.
2. Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cheese you prefer, or even leave it out entirely for a vegan option. Additionally, feel free to swap fresh herbs based on your taste or what you have available.
3. How do I store any leftover salad?
Keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the avocado from browning, mix in a little extra lemon juice.
Enjoy making this delightful Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad! It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that anyone can whip up in no time.
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 can (15-ounce/425g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, pitted and diced Use ripe avocados for the best creaminess.
- 4 ounces (115g) feta cheese, crumbled Can substitute with a vegan feta alternative.
- 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (50g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup (25g) fresh mint, chopped Cilantro can be used as an alternative.
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lemon juice Helps to prevent avocado from browning.
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season this dressing with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss all components until they’re well coated.
- Serve your Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad immediately, or chill it in the fridge to enhance the flavors for later enjoyment.
