Name: Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 medium cooked beets, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 2 cups arugula or mixed greens (optional, for serving); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

This Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon is a bright and nutritious dish perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side. The combination of earthy beets, creamy feta, and tangy lemon-garlic vinaigrette creates a refreshing flavor balance that’s sure to please.

The image shows a dish in a white bowl with a mix of three main layers. The bottom layer is made of dark red and deep purple beet chunks with a glossy texture. The middle layer has round, pale yellow chickpeas scattered around the beets. The top layer is small, white, soft cheese pieces sprinkled with green herbs and tiny black pepper flakes. The dish is garnished with fresh green leaves and small sprigs, adding bright green spots across the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a blurry background that includes wooden chopsticks. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 medium cooked beets, peeled and diced
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
2 cups arugula or mixed greens (optional, for serving)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette:
3 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced beets, red onion, parsley, and half of the crumbled feta cheese.
Step 3: Drizzle the lemon-garlic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: If desired, serve the salad over a bed of arugula or mixed greens. Top with the remaining feta cheese.
Step 5: For the best flavor, chill the salad for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This step is optional but recommended.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh cooked beets for the best texture, or substitute with roasted beets if preferred.
Add toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
For a vegan version, omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative.
Adjust the sweetness in the dressing by adding more honey or maple syrup to balance the acidity of lemon juice.

Storage

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the salad chilled and add fresh greens just before serving if using. Leftovers can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a colorful salad served on a dark round plate placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has three main layers: bright red beet cubes, light yellow chickpeas, and white crumbled cheese scattered unevenly on top. Fresh green herbs, including dill sprigs and small basil leaves, are sprinkled over the salad, adding a fresh touch of color. The beet cubes have a shiny, moist texture, chickpeas look smooth and soft, while the cheese is crumbly. The salad appears lightly dressed with a slight glisten of olive oil. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw beets instead of cooked?

Raw beets are quite firm and earthy, so it’s best to cook them first by boiling, roasting, or steaming to soften and mellow the flavor for this salad.

How can I make this salad ahead of time?

Prepare and toss the salad without the greens, then refrigerate. Add fresh greens right before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.