Looking for a fresh twist on a Mediterranean classic?
This vibrant Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad bursts with color and flavor.
Tossed with a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette, it’s earthy, tangy, and satisfying.
Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup arugula or baby spinach
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (or walnuts for a heartier option)
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette:
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp honey or date syrup (optional for balance)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
What You’ll Do
1. Roast the Beets (if not using pre-cooked):
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wrap whole beets in foil and roast for 45–60 minutes until tender. Let cool, peel, and dice.
2. Prepare the Vinaigrette:
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, garlic, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking to emulsify. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, diced beets, red onion, greens, parsley, and lemon zest.
- Pour over the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
- Top with crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts just before serving.
4. Serve:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Pairs well with grilled fish or whole grain pita.
Play With Your Food!
- Add orange segments or pomegranate seeds for a sweet contrast.
- Swap arugula for mint and dill for a more herb-forward profile.
- Make it a full meal by adding quinoa or farro for extra fiber and protein.
The Bottom Line:
This Mediterranean Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad combines protein-rich chickpeas, sweet roasted beets, peppery greens, and creamy feta. A bright lemon-garlic vinaigrette ties everything together with a citrusy kick. Finished with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs, it’s wholesome, satisfying, and easy to prepare—ideal for healthy eating year-round.