Feta and cranberry chickpea salad with lemon vinaigrette

Looking for a vibrant and flavorful salad that’s both easy to make and satisfying? This Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is your answer! Imagine a delightful mix of creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and hearty chickpeas, all tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a potluck contribution. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired delight that will brighten any table. Let’s jump into the simple steps!

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Salad

This Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is truly special! Here’s why you’ll fall in love:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes!
• Flavor Explosion: Sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main course, side dish, or snack.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at gatherings.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Effortless Elegance: Impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Reminiscent of sunny Mediterranean flavors!

Ingredients Needed for Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients for your Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette. Quality ingredients make all the difference!

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (850g/ approx. 3.5 cups)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (113g)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries (60g)
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion (75g)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (15g)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint (15g)

For the Lemon Vinaigrette:

• 1/4 cup olive oil (60ml) – Extra virgin is best for flavor!
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (45ml) – Freshly squeezed is key!
• 1 teaspoon honey (7g) – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the lemon.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (2.5g) – For a tangy depth.
• 1 small garlic clove, minced (3g) – Use fresh garlic for the best aroma.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Adjust to your liking.

For the best flavor, use high-quality feta cheese. Consider using golden raisins for a unique twist. Find fresh herbs at your local farmer’s market for the brightest taste!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – A fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

• Large mixing bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients.
• Small mixing bowl: To whisk together the vinaigrette.
• Whisk: For emulsifying the lemon vinaigrette.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient ratios.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the red onion, parsley, and mint.
• Can opener: To easily open the chickpea cans.

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A good quality whisk is essential for a smooth vinaigrette. If you don’t have measuring spoons, use a regular spoon, but be precise!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily doubled or halved to suit your needs. Perfect for a quick lunch or a small gathering!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chickpea Salad

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, and chopped red onion. Be sure to rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove any excess sodium. This helps to create a fresher, cleaner taste for your salad.

Step 2: Add Fresh Herbs

Add the fresh parsley and mint to the bowl, gently tossing all ingredients together. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and aroma to the salad, so don’t skip this step! Mint and parsley’s brightness complements the feta and cranberries beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare Lemon Vinaigrette

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined. Whisk vigorously to emulsify the vinaigrette, creating a smooth and creamy texture. This ensures that the dressing coats all the salad ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Season the Vinaigrette

Season the vinaigrette with salt and black pepper to taste, whisking again to incorporate. Taste the vinaigrette and adjust the seasoning as needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.

Step 5: Combine and Marinate

Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the chickpea mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This marinating time is crucial for the flavors to develop and the salad to reach its full potential.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Serve chilled or at room temperature. A final sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving adds a lovely visual appeal.

CHECK OUT: Chickpea Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – A creamy and zesty salad that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Tips for Success

Follow these expert tips to elevate your Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

• Use High-Quality Feta: The taste makes a difference!
• Don’t Overdress: Add vinaigrette gradually to avoid a soggy salad.
• Chill Before Serving: This allows flavors to meld and enhances taste.
• Taste and Adjust: Seasoning is key; don’t be afraid to tweak it!
• Fresh Herbs are Key: They provide a burst of flavor.

A microplane is perfect for zesting citrus quickly and efficiently. Save time with pre-chopped veggies, but fresh is always best!

Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette to suit your taste!

• Add Greens: Baby spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
• Swap Cheese: Goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
• Add Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch.
• Sweetener: Maple syrup instead of honey.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the vinaigrette.

For a vegan version, omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative. Add cumin for an earthy kick.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad

Enhance your meal with these perfect pairings for Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For a complete and protein-rich meal.
• Whole Grain Bread: Perfect for scooping up the salad.
• Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing complement to the zesty flavors.

A fall feast stunner! Stack slices high; drizzle sauce artfully.

Health Benefits

Discover the nutritional power of this Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

• Chickpeas: Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• Feta Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
• Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
• Lemon Juice: Boosts immune system with Vitamin C.

One serving rivals a multivitamin! Fiber aids digestion; protein fuels you. This salad is a nutritional powerhouse.

Storage & Reheating

Keep your Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette fresh and delicious with these storage tips.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.

Cool fully before sealing. Store in glass for 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common questions about making Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad is great made ahead of time! The flavors meld together even more as it sits.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Cucumber, bell peppers, and tomatoes would all be great additions to this salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approximately 320
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 8g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. Carbs: 32g from wholesome ingredients.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more chickpea goodness? Try these flavorful gems!

• Chickpea Tomato Basil Salad – A simple and refreshing salad perfect for summer.
• Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – A vibrant and flavorful salad with a touch of the Mediterranean.
• Greek Chickpea Salad with Feta – This flavorful salad is a Mediterranean-inspired dish, offering a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and tangy feta cheese.

Conclusion

This Feta and Cranberry Chickpea Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a fast, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick lunch to a potluck with friends. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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