Protein Packed Chickpea Cucumber, Feta Salad With The Flavors Of Greece! Recipe

Are you ready for a refreshing twist with crunchy cucumbers and savory feta cheese? I recently whipped up this High Protein Side Salad featuring tender chickpeas, zesty lemon, and fragrant herbs blended with extra virgin olive oil and garlic. It is an effortless dish perfect for summer gatherings and celebrations.

I’ve been experimenting in the kitchen lately and I just discovered the perfect salad that totally surprised me. This Protein Packed Chickpea Cucumber, Feta Salad brings a burst of Greek flavors to your plate in less than 10 minutes.

Ive tossed together a can of chickpeas with crunchy diced cucumber and a handful of thinly sliced red onion to give it an extra kick. The tangy juice of one fresh lemon and some extra virgin olive oil create a bright dressing while a single minced garlic clove adds a robust spirit.

What really makes it pop is the 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese mixed with 2 tbsp of chopped fresh herbs like mint or dill. I love that this dish not only serves as a healthy side but also doubles as a high protein, quick and easy salad perfect for a Super Bowl party or even as a refreshing memorial day or fourth of july treat.

Enjoy the mix of textures and flavors with every bite!

Why I Like this Recipe

I love this recipe because:
1. I find it super easy to put together, which saves me tons of time.
2. I’m all about healthy eating, and this salad is totally packed with protein and fresh veggies.
3. I really enjoy the mix of zesty lemon and savory feta, plus the herbs add such a cool twist.
4. I like that I can eat it straight away or chill it for a refreshing bite later.

This protein packed summer salad comes together quick and easy. There is canned chickpeas, crunchy cucumbers, and salty feta cheese, which all mix up nicely when you toss them with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and some fresh herbs like mint, dill or basil. It tastes awesome and sometimes I add a bit more salt or lemon juice after giving it a good mix just to make sure every bite is bursting with flavor. I like making it as a healthy side dish for Memorial Day or Fourth of july because it’s reliable and refreshing, plus it only takes about 10 minutes or less to make. Enjoying this salad always feels like a nice, light treat on a hot day.

Ingredients

• Chickpeas: They give lots of protein and fiber, keeping u full and energy high.
• Cucumber: Crisp and hydrating, adds a refreshing crunch and subtle cool flavor.
• Red Onion: Its tangy taste brightens up the dish while adding natural antioxidants.
• Feta Cheese: Salty and creamy, it brings protein and a rich, tangy flavor tone.
• Lemon Juice: Offers a sharp sour kick that balances the creaminess of feta and olive oil.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fat that smooths the blend and gives a fruity, light taste.
• Garlic: Adds a bold, zesty note along with helpful antioxidants for overall health.
• Fresh Herbs: Mix mint, dill or basil for extra freshness, aroma, and a unique flavor boost.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tbsp)
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (mint, dill, or basil), or a mix of your favorites
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make this

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas and then add them to a big bowl along with the diced cucumber and thinly sliced red onion.

2. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs (mint, dill, or basil).

4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix everything together gently so you dont mash the feta.

5. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

6. Give the salad a good toss to make sure every bite is loaded with flavor.

7. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend together a little.

8. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

9. You can serve this salad immediately, or chill it in the fridge for an extra refreshing bite.

10. Enjoy your protein packed summer salad as a healthy side dish for Memorial Day or Fourth of July!

Equipment Needed

1. Colander to drain and rinse the chickpeas
2. Cutting board for dicing the cucumber and slicing the red onion
3. Chef’s knife to cut the vegetables
4. A large mixing bowl to combine the chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, and feta
5. A small bowl to whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs
6. A whisk to mix the dressing properly
7. Measuring spoons for accurate amounts of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs
8. A serving spoon or spatula to gently toss the salad without mashing the feta

FAQ

Protein Packed Chickpea Cucumber, Feta Salad With The Flavors Of Greece! Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have chickpeas, you can swap ’em with cannellini beans or black beans if you want a different twist while keepin the protein punch.
• If you’re short on cucumber, try using diced zucchini instead. The texture’s a bit different, but it still gives a refreshing crunch.
• Not a fan of red onion? You can use thinly sliced shallots for a milder flavor that still adds a bit of zing.
• If feta isn’t available or you need a dairy free option, crumbled goat cheese or a vegan feta works just fine.
• Outta lemon juice? Lime juice can be a tangy substitute that brings the same bright flavor to the dish.

Pro Tips

1. Try chilling all your ingredients for a bit before you mix them together so all the flavors really pop, especially on a hot day.
2. If you want a bit more crunch and flavor, toss in a handful of toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts, it pairs really well with the creamy feta.
3. Taste your dressing before you add it and adjust the lemon juice or herbs as needed, sometimes a little extra zing can make all the difference.