EASY TO COOK

🥒 Mediterranean Zucchini and Chickpea Salad 🥗🍋

by

This Mediterranean Zucchini and Chickpea Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavors. With fresh zucchini, protein-rich chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, it’s perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or a healthy snack. It’s simple to make and bursting with Mediterranean goodness!

📋 Ingredients:

  • 2 medium zucchinis, diced 🥒
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 🥫
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 🍅
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced 🧅
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced 🥒
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced 🫒
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese 🧀
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional) 🌿

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil 🛢️
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice 🍋
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 🍷
  • 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂

📝 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad:

  1. Dice the vegetables:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced zucchini, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and Kalamata olives.
  1. Add the herbs:
  • Add the chopped parsley and mint (if using) to the bowl and gently mix to combine.

2. Make the Dressing:

  1. Mix the ingredients:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Combine and Serve:

  1. Dress the salad:
  • Pour the dressing over the zucchini and chickpea mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  1. Add the cheese:
  • Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and give it a final gentle toss.
  1. Serve:
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This salad can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

🍽️ Tips:

  • Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or quinoa to make this salad more filling.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
  • Customization: Feel free to add other Mediterranean favorites like sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts.

⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
🔥 Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving

This Mediterranean Zucchini and Chickpea Salad is fresh, zesty, and full of healthy ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation! 🥒🍅🌿