Ingredients:
**For the Salad:**
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
– 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/4 cup vegan feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
**For the Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
#### Instructions
- **Prepare the Vegetables:**
– Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
– Halve the cherry tomatoes.
– Dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper.
– Thinly slice the red onion.
– Halve the kalamata olives.
- **Combine Ingredients:**
– In a large salad bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and kalamata olives.
- **Prepare the Dressing:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- **Dress the Salad:**
– Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
- **Add Vegan Feta (Optional):**
– Crumble the vegan feta cheese over the top of the salad and gently toss again to distribute.
- **Serve:**
– Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
### Additional Tips
– **Variations:** Feel free to add other Mediterranean ingredients such as artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
– **Make Ahead:** This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just keep the dressing separate and toss it together right before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
– **Protein Boost:** For additional protein, add cooked quinoa, or more chickpeas.
### Nutritional Highlights
– **Chickpeas** provide plant-based protein and fiber.
– **Fresh vegetables** offer a variety of vitamins and antioxidants.
– **Olives** add healthy fats and a delicious briny flavor.
– **Vegan feta cheese** adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture without dairy.
Enjoy your Mediterranean Chickpea Delight—a perfect refreshing, filling, and nutritious salad!