Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

This Mediterranean chickpea salad with lemon-tahini dressing is a vibrant, fresh, and nutritious dish that can be served as a main course or a side. Packed with protein from the chickpeas and bursting with fresh veggies, this salad is full of Mediterranean flavors that make every bite a delight. The creamy lemon-tahini dressing adds a rich, tangy element, making this salad the perfect addition to any meal.

Ingredients for the Salad:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Ingredients for the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Water to thin (if needed)

Instructions:

Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and parsley. Toss to mix.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and maple syrup (if using). Add salt and pepper to taste. Gradually add water to thin the dressing to your desired consistency.

Combine the Salad and Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Serve: Garnish with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve immediately. This salad is perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or as a topping for grilled meats or pita.

Tips for the Perfect Mediterranean Chickpea Salad:

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other Mediterranean veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Vegan: To keep the salad vegan, simply skip the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Make Ahead: This salad is great for meal prep! Make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean chickpea salad with lemon-tahini dressing is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that is perfect for warm weather or any time you’re craving a refreshing meal. The creamy tahini dressing complements the fresh ingredients, while the chickpeas provide a satisfying boost of protein. This salad is incredibly versatile, making it a great addition to any meal plan. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal!