Why Make This Recipe
This Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta is a great choice for anyone looking for a simple, healthy meal. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors, making it both delicious and satisfying. The combination of crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, and tangy feta cheese creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy days, and can be served as a side dish or a light lunch.
How to Make Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta
Ingredients:
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) for garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, chickpeas, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately.
How to Serve Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta
This salad is best served fresh. You can enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish if you want to add protein. For a more filling meal, you can serve it on a bed of quinoa or alongside a warm piece of bread.
How to Store Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it is best to eat this salad right away for optimal freshness. If you do store it, keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Tips to Make Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta
- Make sure your avocado is ripe for the best flavor and texture.
- You can add other veggies like bell peppers or radishes for a crunchier texture.
- Mix in a handful of nuts or seeds for extra protein and crunch.
Variation
You can easily change this salad by adding different proteins like grilled shrimp or tofu. Additionally, swapping feta for goat cheese can give it a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables!
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it is best eaten fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and store them separately. Just combine them and add the dressing when you’re ready to serve.
2. What can I substitute for chickpeas?
You can use black beans or lentils if you prefer. They will still provide great flavor and nutrition.
3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Arugula, Chickpea, and Avocado Salad with Feta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups arugula
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced Make sure it's ripe for best flavor.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled Can swap feta for goat cheese for a different flavor.
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, chickpeas, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately.