Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing

Ever craved a light, refreshing, and satisfying salad that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors? This Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing is your answer! Combining the simplicity of a classic Greek salad with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas and a creamy, flavorful hummus dressing, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a delightful side dish. Inspired by the sun-drenched shores of Greece, it’s a vibrant and healthy addition to any table. Let’s dive into the magic of this flavorful creation!

Why You’ll Love This Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing

This Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing is more than just a salad; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

• Ready in Under 30 Minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Fresh Flavors: A delightful combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy red onions.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable and readily available ingredients.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your dietary preferences and taste.
• Creamy and Flavorful Hummus Dressing: Adds a unique twist to the traditional Greek salad dressing.
• Satisfying and Filling: The chickpeas provide a hearty and satisfying element to the salad.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Holds up well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Compared to heavier salads, this Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad offers a light yet fulfilling experience. The aroma is fresh and inviting, and each bite is a burst of Mediterranean sunshine. It’s simple enough to make even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, yet impressive enough to serve to guests!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to create this delicious Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing:

For the Salad:

• Chickpeas: 400g / 1 3/4 cups, canned, drained, and rinsed.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 250g / 1 pint, halved.
• Cucumber: 1 medium, diced. Select a firm cucumber for the best texture.
• Red Onion: 1/2 medium, thinly sliced.
• Kalamata Olives: 100g / 1/2 cup, pitted and halved.
• Bell Pepper: 1 medium (any color), diced. Pick one that is firm and has a bright color.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped.

For the Hummus Dressing:

• Prepared Hummus: 150g / 2/3 cup.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra virgin.
• Water: 1-2 tablespoons, to thin the dressing.
• Salt: To taste.
• Black Pepper: To taste.
• Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon. Toast it lightly for a few seconds to unlock its flavor.

Sourcing tip: Fresh herbs can often be found at your local farmers’ market for the best flavor and quality.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cucumber Chickpea Greek Salad – A refreshing twist with dill and a lemon vinaigrette.

Essential Equipment List

Making this salad is incredibly simple, and you likely have most of these items already. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients.
• Small Bowl: For preparing the hummus dressing.
• Cutting Board: To chop the vegetables.
• Sharp Knife: For efficient chopping and slicing.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

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Optional: A whisk can be helpful for emulsifying the hummus dressing, but a fork works just as well!

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of the recipe:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easily scalable. Double or triple the ingredients for larger gatherings, or halve it for a quick and easy lunch for one!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing:

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

First, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Next, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Roughly chop the fresh parsley. Combine all these ingredients in a large bowl. Be sure to use a sharp knife for clean cuts.

Step 2: Make the Hummus Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the prepared hummus, lemon juice, olive oil, water (start with 1 tablespoon and add more until desired consistency is reached), salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Pro tip: For a smoother dressing, use a high-quality, creamy hummus.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Pour the hummus dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill for later. A gentle toss ensures the vegetables don’t bruise.

CHECK OUT: Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – Another tasty chickpea salad with a refreshing Mediterranean twist.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to ensure your Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overdress: Add the dressing gradually and toss gently to avoid a soggy salad.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavor.
• Taste and Adjust: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• Chill Before Serving: Chilling the salad for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld together.
• Add Herbs at the End: Add fresh parsley right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize this recipe? Here are some ideas:

• Add Feta Cheese: For a more traditional Greek salad flavor, add crumbled feta cheese.
• Substitute Olives: If you’re not a fan of Kalamata olives, try green olives or omit them altogether.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh dill, mint, or basil for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it Vegan: Ensure your hummus is vegan, as some store-bought varieties may contain honey.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad

This Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: For a complete and balanced meal.
• Pita Bread or Naan: For scooping up the delicious salad.
• Vegetable Skewers: For a colorful and flavorful side dish.
• Lemonade or Iced Tea: For a refreshing beverage pairing.

This salad is perfect for a light summer lunch, a picnic, or a potluck. Elevate your presentation by arranging the salad on a platter and garnishing with extra parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Health Benefits

This Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here are a few highlights:

• Chickpeas: Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding digestion.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against certain diseases.
• Cucumber: Provides hydration and essential vitamins and minerals.
• Hummus: Made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, offering healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that is rich in antioxidants.

The combination of these ingredients makes this salad a nutritious and satisfying choice for a healthy lifestyle. One serving rivals a multivitamin, providing essential nutrients and antioxidants!

Storage & Reheating

To ensure your Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage and reheating tips:

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Dressing: If possible, store the salad and dressing separately to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
• Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so no reheating is required.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables will become mushy upon thawing.

Cool the salad completely before sealing it to prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, provided it is stored in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. However, it is best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and then cook until tender before adding them to the salad.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.

Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly, provided that the hummus used is also vegan.

How Do I Avoid Soggy Results?

To avoid a soggy salad, don’t overdress it. Add the dressing gradually and toss gently. Also, ensure that the vegetables are thoroughly drained before adding them to the salad.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to serve a larger crowd. Just ensure you have a large enough bowl to toss all the ingredients together evenly.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 10g

Please note: Exact nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients used. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore: Mediterranean Delights Await!

Craving more Mediterranean flavors? Explore these delicious recipes:

• Cucumber Chickpea Greek Salad – A refreshing twist with dill and a lemon vinaigrette.
• Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad – Another tasty chickpea salad with a refreshing Mediterranean twist.
• Greek Pasta Salad with Lemon Dressing – A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion

This Greek Chickpea Tomato Salad with Hummus Dressing is a fast, flavorful, and healthy option that’s perfect for any occasion. Whip it up tonight, and 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!

Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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