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Feta & Cranberry Chickpeas with Lemon Vinaigrette

Feta & Cranberry Chickpeas with Lemon Vinaigrette
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Feta & Cranberry Chickpeas with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, refreshing, and nutritious salad that perfectly balances tangy feta cheese, sweet dried cranberries, and hearty chickpeas tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Quick to prepare and packed with protein and fiber, it makes a versatile dish ideal for light lunches, colorful sides, or crowd-pleasing gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Lemon Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or mint, chopped
  • Toasted nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the vinaigrette is well emulsified and bright in flavor.
  2. Rinse and Drain Chickpeas: Rinse canned chickpeas under cold water to remove excess sodium and then drain thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the salad.
  3. Combine Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the rinsed chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, and dried cranberries to evenly distribute each flavor.
  4. Dress the Salad: Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the chickpea mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients without breaking the chickpeas or feta too much.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint, if using, and adjust seasoning to taste before serving chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Use quality feta for creamier texture and less salt.
  • Don’t skip rinsing canned chickpeas to reduce canned flavor and improve freshness.
  • Adjust lemon to olive oil ratio based on your acidity preference.
  • Serve fresh within a few hours to maintain vibrant flavors and textures.
  • Add fresh herbs just before serving to prevent wilting and maintain brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: feta, cranberry, chickpeas, lemon vinaigrette, salad, vegetarian, gluten free, quick, healthy, protein

Find it online: https://sophiemelody.com/feta-cranberry-chickpeas-with-lemon-vinaigrette/