Fresh Mediterranean Chickpea Salad (Print)

A vibrant Mediterranean salad featuring chickpeas, cucumber and tomatoes in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing.

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Base

01 - 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained well
02 - 2 cups chopped English cucumber (about 2/3 of 1 medium)
03 - 1 1/4 cups chopped Roma tomatoes (about 2)
04 - 1/4 cup chopped red onion
05 - 3 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

→ Dressing

06 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
07 - 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
08 - 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
09 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Add chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion and parsley to a medium bowl.
02 - In a liquid measuring cup, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
03 - Pour dressing over mixture in bowl. Toss to evenly coat. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. For best texture, serve within a few hours, though flavors will remain good for several days.

# Notes:

01 - Garden cucumbers can be substituted for English cucumbers, just peel them first.
02 - Grape tomatoes (1.5 cups) work well in place of Roma tomatoes.
03 - Red wine or white wine vinegar can substitute for lemon juice.
04 - Optional additions include: 1/3 cup feta, 1 (5 oz) can well-drained tuna, 1 diced avocado, 3/4 cup cooked quinoa, or 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata or black olives.