Vegan Loaded Greek Chickpea Salad Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re delighted to share a vibrant and nutritious recipe that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, plant-based meal. Our Vegan Loaded Greek Chickpea Salad is a delightful fusion of fresh vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and zesty Greek flavors. This recipe is ideal for meal prep, a quick lunch, or a refreshing dinner.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (choose any color you prefer)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled vegan feta cheese (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas:
    • Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for ensuring that the chickpeas retain their texture and absorb the flavors of the salad effectively.
  2. Chop the Vegetables:
    • Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes. If they are large, consider quartering them to ensure they are bite-sized.
    • Dice the cucumber into small cubes. Removing the seeds can help prevent excess moisture in the salad.
    • Finely chop the red onion to add a subtle sharpness to the salad.
    • Slice the Kalamata olives and dice the bell pepper. Any color bell pepper can be used based on your preference and availability.
  3. Prepare Fresh Herbs:
    • Finely chop the fresh parsley and dill. These herbs will add a burst of freshness and an aromatic quality to the salad.

Mixing the Salad

  1. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, bell pepper, vegan feta cheese, parsley, and dill. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them evenly without mashing the chickpeas.

Preparing the Dressing

  1. Mix the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended. If using a jar, secure the lid and shake vigorously.
  2. Taste and Adjust:
    • Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Depending on your preference, you might want to add a pinch more salt or a splash more lemon juice.

Assembling the Salad

  1. Dress the Salad:
    • Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  2. Chill and Marinate:
    • For the best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the salad.

Serving

  1. Serve:
    • Once chilled, give the salad a final toss. Serve it in individual bowls or as a large platter for sharing. This salad pairs wonderfully with whole grain pita bread or as a side dish to your favorite Mediterranean entree.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 cup):

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sugars: 5 g
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg

SmartPoints (WW Points)

  • Freestyle SmartPoints: 7
  • PointsPlus: 8

(Note: SmartPoints values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. Always consult the most recent WW guidelines for accuracy.)

Tips and Variations

  • Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize this salad by adding other ingredients such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or capers.
  • Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider adding grilled tofu or tempeh.
  • Storage: This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option.

Conclusion

Our Vegan Loaded Greek Chickpea Salad is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious and satisfying option for any meal. With its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and balanced nutrition, this salad is sure to become a staple in your healthy eating repertoire. Enjoy!