This vibrant Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad is a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. With creamy roasted beets, protein-packed chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s endlessly customizable, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion—whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or hosting a dinner party.
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Total Time
- 10 minutes
Servings
- 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas , drained and rinsed
- 2 medium cooked beets , peeled and diced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley , for garnish (optional)
For the Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- Salt and freshly ground pepper , to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds (for crunch)
- Fresh dill or mint (for herbaceous flavor)
- Diced avocado, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cooked quinoa (to make it a full meal)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium. Pat them dry with a paper towel for better texture.
- Peel and dice the cooked beets into bite-sized cubes. (If using pre-cooked beets, simply dice them.)
- Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces.
Step 2: Make the Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil , lemon juice , and minced garlic until well combined.
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed—you can add more lemon juice for brightness or olive oil for richness.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas , diced beets , and crumbled feta cheese .
- Drizzle the Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to break up the feta too much.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (optional) for a pop of color and freshness.
- If adding optional ingredients like toasted nuts, herbs, or diced avocado, sprinkle them on top before serving.
Pro Tips
- Cooking Beets: To cook fresh beets, wrap them individually in foil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 45–60 minutes , or until tender. Let them cool, then peel and dice. Alternatively, use pre-cooked beets for convenience.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared up to 1 day in advance . Store the salad and dressing separately in the refrigerator, then toss together just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Note that the beets may stain the other ingredients slightly, but the flavor will still be great.
Serving Ideas & Meal Pairings
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or a hearty soup like lentil or tomato bisque.
- As a Main Course: Bulk up the salad by adding diced avocado, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cooked quinoa for extra protein and heartiness.
- In a Pita Pocket: Stuff the salad into whole-grain pita bread for a portable vegetarian lunch.
- On Toast: Spoon the salad onto slices of crusty bread and top with a fried egg for a brunch-worthy dish.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fats: 18g
- Protein: 9g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad is a versatile dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs perfectly with the creaminess of feta and the nutty texture of chickpeas, while the zesty Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a colorful side dish, or a customizable main course, this salad has you covered.
Ready to brighten your plate with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a salad that’s fresh, filling, and endlessly adaptable—it’s healthy eating made easy and delicious! 🌈✨
