Ingredients
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil (3 tbsp)
Extra virgin olive oil is the base for the salad dressing, providing richness and smoothness. Its fruity flavor enhances the overall taste of the salad while offering heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean diets and works well in this light, fresh salad.
2. Lemon Juice (3 tbsp)
Lemon juice gives the salad its bright, zesty tang, perfectly complementing the richness of the avocado and feta cheese. The acidity from the lemon juice helps to balance the flavors and adds a refreshing citrus punch.
3. Garlic Clove (1, pressed or minced)
Garlic adds a bold, aromatic flavor to the dressing. Whether you use a garlic press or finely mince the garlic, this ingredient provides depth and savory warmth that enhances the overall salad.
4. Sea Salt (½ tsp)
A pinch of salt is essential to bring out the natural flavors of the salad ingredients. Sea salt is often preferred due to its clean, slightly mineral flavor, but regular salt can also be used.
5. Black Pepper (⅛ tsp)
Black pepper adds a subtle, mild heat that balances the acidity of the lemon juice and the creaminess of the avocado. It’s an understated but necessary addition to enhance the overall seasoning of the salad.
6. Cherry Tomatoes (1 ½ cups, halved)
Cherry tomatoes are sweet, juicy, and vibrant, adding both color and flavor to the salad. Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy feta cheese and the savory chickpeas.
7. English Cucumber (1, halved and sliced)
English cucumbers are crisp, mild, and refreshing, making them the perfect addition to any salad. Their high water content adds to the freshness of the dish, and their crunch balances the creaminess of the avocado and feta.
8. Chickpeas (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are the star of this dish. They provide a hearty, protein-packed base that makes the salad more filling and satisfying. After draining and rinsing the chickpeas, they blend well with the other ingredients and absorb the flavors of the dressing.
9. Red Onion (½ medium, thinly sliced)
Red onion adds a subtle sharpness and color contrast to the salad. It provides a slight bite without being overpowering and adds complexity to the dish.
10. Avocado (1, sliced)
Avocado adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the salad. Its smoothness contrasts beautifully with the crisp vegetables and the tangy feta cheese, making each bite a delicious combination of textures.
11. Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped)
Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the citrusy dressing and enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad. The slight earthiness of cilantro provides balance to the other ingredients.
12. Feta Cheese (4 oz, diced)
Feta cheese is a salty, crumbly addition to the salad that brings depth and savory flavor. Its tangy richness pairs perfectly with the freshness of the vegetables and the creaminess of the avocado.
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 pressed garlic clove, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper.
- Whisk everything together until well combined, or if you prefer, you can shake the ingredients together in a small mason jar for a more uniform mix. Set the dressing aside.
- Prepare the Salad Ingredients
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Slice the English cucumber into half-moons and add them to the bowl.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then add them to the bowl along with the sliced red onion.
- Slice the avocado and set it aside for later.
- Assemble the Salad
- Add the diced feta cheese and chopped cilantro to the salad bowl.
- Gently toss the ingredients to combine.
- Dress the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. Depending on your preference, you can use all the dressing or adjust to taste.
- Serve
- Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor and texture, or refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving if you prefer a chilled salad.
Notes
- Vegan Option: To make this salad vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based feta alternative. You can also use vegan-friendly dressing by swapping the olive oil-based dressing with a tahini-based one for a creamy option.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to load up the salad with additional vegetables. Bell peppers, shredded carrots, or radishes would all be great additions for added color and flavor.
- Herb Variations: If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Boost: For added protein, you can incorporate grilled chicken, chickpea pasta, or roasted tofu.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: N/A