Print

Cucumber Chickpea Dill Salad Recipe

4.6 from 145 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Chop the Onion and Dill: Finely chop the red onion and fresh dill to ensure their flavors are well distributed throughout the salad.
  3. 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.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until fully emulsified and flavorful.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly without bruising the cucumbers.
  6. Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top if desired, adding a creamy and tangy contrast to the fresh vegetables.
  7. Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavor, refrigerate the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
  8. 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