Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad with Dill

 

Craving a light, refreshing, and utterly delicious salad? Look no further! This Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad with Dill is the perfect blend of crisp textures and vibrant flavors. Inspired by simple, wholesome ingredients, this salad is ideal for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a fantastic side dish. Let’s dive in and discover the magic!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad

This salad is a winner for so many reasons. It’s:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Refreshing: The cool cucumber and zesty lemon create a delightful sensation.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Versatile: Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and gatherings.
• Flavorful: A vibrant mix of fresh herbs and tangy dressing.
• Effortless: So simple, even beginner cooks can master it!

This salad is lighter and brighter than many heavier options, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.

Ingredients Needed for the Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful salad:

• Cucumbers: 2 medium, diced (about 300g/10.5 oz). Choose firm cucumbers for the best texture.
• Chickpeas: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed (about 425g). Rinsing removes excess sodium.
• Red Onion: 1/2 medium, thinly sliced. Soak in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the bite.
• Fresh Dill: 1/4 cup, chopped (about 15g). Fresh dill is crucial for the signature flavor.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons (45ml). Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Freshly squeezed is always best!
• Honey: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g). Adjust to taste.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g). Freshly ground is recommended.
• Feta Cheese (optional): 1/4 cup, crumbled (about 30g). Adds a creamy, salty element.

For the freshest flavor, use locally sourced cucumbers and dill. It makes all the difference!

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Essential Equipment List

Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this refreshing salad:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For tossing all the ingredients together.
• Small Bowl: For whisking the dressing.
• Whisk: To emulsify the dressing ingredients.
• Knife: For dicing the cucumbers and chopping the dill.
• Cutting Board: To protect your countertop while chopping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

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A good quality knife and a sturdy cutting board will make the prep work a breeze!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Perfect for meal prepping too!

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cucumber Chickpea Salad

Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious cucumber chickpea salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, drained and rinsed chickpeas, and thinly sliced red onion. Make sure the cucumbers are diced into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Ensure the honey is fully dissolved into the dressing. The dressing should be slightly emulsified and appear creamy.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the cucumber and chickpea mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Be careful not to over-toss, as this can cause the cucumbers to release too much water.

Step 4: Add Fresh Dill

Add the chopped fresh dill and mix thoroughly. The dill adds a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Step 5: Add Feta (Optional)

If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top. Feta adds a salty, creamy element that elevates the salad.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.

CHECK OUT: How To Make Cucumber Salad – A comprehensive guide to making refreshing cucumber salads with various additions!

Tips for Success

Here are some pro tips to ensure your salad is a hit:

• Mellow the Onion: Soak the sliced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes to reduce its sharpness.
• Don’t Overdress: Add the dressing gradually to avoid a soggy salad.
• Chill Time Matters: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh dill for the most vibrant flavor. Dried dill is not a good substitute.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed before serving.

A little extra effort in prep can make a huge difference in the final result!

Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix it up? Here are some ideas:

• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, tomatoes, or avocado would be delicious additions.
• Swap the Herbs: Try mint, parsley, or cilantro instead of dill.

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the feta cheese for a vegan option.
• Add Protein: Grilled chicken or tofu would make this salad a more substantial meal.

Customize this salad to your liking with endless possibilities!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad

This salad pairs beautifully with:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: A light and healthy pairing.
• Pita Bread or Crackers: For scooping up the salad.
• Hummus: A Mediterranean-inspired combination.
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages to complement the salad.

Serve this salad at your next barbecue or picnic for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits

This Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad with Dill is packed with nutrients! Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, while chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. Red onion provides antioxidants, and dill adds vitamins A and C. Enjoy a salad that’s both delicious and good for you!

Storage & Reheating

To store, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The cucumbers may release some water, so you may want to drain the salad before serving. This salad is best served cold and does not reheat well.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge. However, the cucumbers may release some water, so it’s best to consume it as soon as possible for the best texture.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?

Fresh dill is highly recommended for this recipe, as it provides a much more vibrant flavor. If you must use dried dill, use about 1 teaspoon in place of the 1/4 cup of fresh dill.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or avocado to customize the salad to your liking.

Is this salad vegan?

This salad is naturally vegan if you omit the feta cheese.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Calories: Approximately 180
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 7g

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more refreshing and flavorful salads? Try these gems!

• Arugula, Beet, and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Dressing – A vibrant and earthy salad with a zesty lemon dressing.
• Chickpea, Tomato, and Basil Salad – A simple and classic salad bursting with fresh flavors.
• Mediterranean Chickpea and Feta Salad – A flavorful salad with feta, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette.

Conclusion

This Cucumber, Chickpea, and Red Onion Salad with Dill is a fast, flavorful, and healthy option that’s sure to impress. Whip it up tonight and tag us with your culinary 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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