Cucumber Chickpea Dill Salad Recipe
This refreshing Cucumber Chickpea Dill Salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish combining crisp cucumbers, protein-packed chickpeas, fragrant fresh dill, and a bright lemon-olive oil dressing. Optional additions like cherry tomatoes and feta cheese add extra flavor and texture, making it a perfect light lunch or side dish that is healthy and satisfying.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.
- Chop the Onion and Dill: Finely chop the red onion and fresh dill to ensure their flavors are well distributed throughout the salad.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the diced cucumbers, rinsed chickpeas, chopped red onion, dill, and cherry tomatoes if using, gently mixing to combine.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified and flavorful.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly without bruising the cucumbers.
- Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top if desired, adding a creamy and tangy contrast to the fresh vegetables.
- Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
- Serve: Give the salad a final gentle toss to redistribute any settled dressing and serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, nutritious dish.
Notes
- This salad can be served as a light meal or a side dish to grilled meats or fish.
- For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative.
- Feel free to customize with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint for a different flavor profile.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavors but it can also be enjoyed immediately after preparation.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright and natural taste in the dressing.
Keywords: Cucumber salad, Chickpea salad, Dill salad, Mediterranean salad, Healthy salad, Vegetarian recipe, Quick salad recipe