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Feta and Cranberry Chickpeas with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

Feta and Cranberry Chickpeas with Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette Recipe

4.8 from 17 reviews

A vibrant and nutritious salad featuring sautéed chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and sweet dried cranberries, all brought together with a zesty garlic lemon vinaigrette. This easy-to-make dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, perfect for a light lunch or a wholesome side.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your choice)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Vinaigrette

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional

  • Toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for crunch

Instructions

  1. Prepare chickpeas: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the drained chickpeas. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the chickpeas become slightly golden and warm through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Make vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
  3. Assemble salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sautéed chickpeas, dried cranberries, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss to mix evenly.
  4. Dress and toss: Pour the garlic lemon vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
  5. Optional garnish: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds on top of the salad for added texture and crunch just before serving. Serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • Sautéing the chickpeas enhances their flavor and texture, but you can skip this step for a quicker salad.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic or lemon juice in the vinaigrette to suit your taste preferences.
  • For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day without the dressing.
  • To make it vegan, substitute feta cheese with a vegan alternative or omit it entirely.

Nutrition

Keywords: feta chickpea salad, cranberry salad, garlic lemon vinaigrette, Mediterranean salad, vegetarian salad, healthy salad