Description
This Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette is a vibrant and nutritious dish packed with earthy roasted beets, hearty chickpeas, and creamy feta cheese. Tossed with a zesty lemon-garlic vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and easy prep, this salad is a wholesome and colorful way to elevate your meals.
Ingredients
Beets: Roasted beets add an earthy sweetness and vibrant color to the salad.
Chickpeas: A great source of protein and fiber, chickpeas make this salad hearty and satisfying.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the beets.
Red Onion: Adds a touch of sharpness and crunch to the salad.
Mixed Greens or Baby Spinach: A fresh base that keeps the salad light and crisp.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the flavors and adds freshness.
Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil gives the dressing a rich texture and depth.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds acidity and balances the salad’s sweetness.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor to the vinaigrette.
Dijon Mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds a subtle tang.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
Instructions
Roast the Beets:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap your beets in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes until tender when poked with a fork. Once cooled, peel the skins off and dice the beets into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced roasted beets, drained chickpeas, crumbled feta, and finely chopped red onion. Add in the mixed greens or baby spinach, followed by the fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine.
Make the Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the acidity by adding more lemon juice if needed.
Combine and Toss:
Pour the lemon-garlic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat. Be careful not to bruise the veggies. Serve immediately or store for later.
Notes
Tips for Success:
Roast the beets ahead of time for easy prep throughout the week.
Use a mix of greens like arugula or kale for a different flavor profile.
Make extra vinaigrette to use on other salads or as a marinade for meats.
Add avocado or nuts for extra creaminess and crunch.
Equipment Needed:
Baking Sheet: For roasting the beets.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining the salad ingredients.
Whisk: To mix the vinaigrette ingredients.
Knife: For chopping the vegetables and beets.
Measuring Spoons: For the vinaigrette ingredients.
Variations:
Vegan: Replace feta with a plant-based cheese and use a vegan-friendly Dijon mustard.
Add Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Add a roasted sweet potato for extra texture and flavor.
Try Quinoa or Farro: Incorporate these grains for a heartier meal.
Add Pomegranate Seeds: For a burst of sweetness and color.
Try Different Beans: Swap chickpeas with black beans or lentils for variety.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with Grilled Chicken or Fish: For a complete meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread: For a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
Serve with a Chilled White Wine: Or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
FAQs about Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better when the flavors have time to meld. Just add the vinaigrette before serving for the freshest crunch.
How long will the salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the salad should stay fresh for up to 3 days. The beets and chickpeas hold up well, but the greens might lose their crispness after a day.
Can I use pre-cooked beets instead of roasting my own?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked beets save time and are a great shortcut. Just make sure to choose varieties without added sugar or preservatives.
Can I customize the seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning or swap in other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even a little bit of cumin for a unique twist.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prepping. You can store it in the fridge for a few days and enjoy it for lunch or dinner.
