Introduction
Looking for a fresh, healthy, and super easy salad to make? Say hello to Herby Cucumber Salad with Feta and Chickpeas! This dish is light, full of flavor, and takes just a few minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or even as a side dish for dinner.
What makes this salad special? The mix of crunchy cucumbers, creamy feta cheese, and hearty chickpeas, all tossed together with fresh herbs and a simple dressing. It’s refreshing, colorful, and packed with protein and fiber—great for your tummy and your taste buds! Let’s jump into the details and see how you can make this delicious salad at home.
Ingredients – Herby Cucumber Salad
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make Herby Cucumber Salad with Feta and Chickpeas. All of these ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can of chickpeas (15 oz) – drained and rinsed
- 1 large cucumber – sliced or chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese – crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion – finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley – chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint – chopped (optional, but tasty!)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill – chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best!)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup – adds a little sweetness
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step by Step Process – Herby Cucumber Salad
Let’s walk through the steps together. You don’t need to be a chef to make this—it’s super easy and fast.
Step 1: Get Everything Ready
- Open the can of chickpeas and rinse them well under cold water. This helps remove extra salt and gives them a cleaner taste. Let them drain in a colander.
- Wash the cucumber, parsley, mint, and dill. Then dry them with a paper towel or clean cloth.
Step 2: Cut and Chop
- Slice the cucumber into half-moons or bite-sized pieces—whatever you like best. Chop the red onion finely. Chop the herbs into small pieces.
- If you’re using block feta cheese, crumble it with your hands or a fork into small chunks.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper. Stir or shake well until everything blends together.
Step 4: Mix It All Up
- In a large bowl, add the chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, parsley, mint, and dill. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently so the flavors mix together.
- Now, add the crumbled feta cheese and give it one last gentle stir. Be careful not to break the feta too much.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
You can serve the salad right away, or let it chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors soak in. It tastes even better after sitting for a little while!
Enjoy your Herby Cucumber Salad with Feta and Chickpeas—fresh, healthy, and super yummy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 6 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fat | 17 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 12% of Daily Value |
| Calcium | 10% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 15% of Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just wait to add the feta until right before serving so it stays fresh and creamy.
2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
No worries! You can use dried herbs, but use less—about 1/3 of the fresh amount. Or, just use parsley if that’s all you have.
3. Is this salad good for vegans?
Not with feta cheese, but you can easily make it vegan! Just use a plant-based feta or skip the cheese altogether. The salad still tastes great!
4. Can I add other veggies?
Absolutely! Try adding chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado for extra flavor and color.
5. How long does it last in the fridge?
This salad can last 2 to 3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. But it’s best when fresh!
6. Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes! Lime gives a slightly different flavor but still tastes amazing.
Final Thoughts
Herby Cucumber Salad with Feta and Chickpeas is the kind of recipe everyone should have in their kitchen playbook. It’s healthy, quick to make, and super flexible. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or something tasty to bring to a potluck—this salad is always a hit.
Plus, it’s a great way to eat more veggies, protein, and fiber without any heavy cooking. Just chop, mix, and enjoy! So go ahead—grab those fresh herbs, open up a can of chickpeas, and toss together this refreshing and colorful salad. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!
