Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
Introduction
Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing is a refreshing and healthy dish that is easy to prepare. This salad is packed with flavor and full of nutritious ingredients. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a quick dinner option. In just a few minutes, you can create a colorful and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Why Make This Recipe
Making this salad is a smart choice for many reasons. First, it’s a great way to use fresh vegetables and canned chickpeas, which are both nutritious and filling. Second, the herb dressing adds a punch of flavor without overwhelming the ingredients. Lastly, this dish is versatile – you can enjoy it right away or chill it in the fridge for later. With its vibrant colors and fresh taste, this salad is sure to brighten up any meal.
How to Make Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Prepare the Zucchini: If desired, lightly sauté the diced zucchini in a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened. This step is optional; you can also use the zucchini raw.
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Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced zucchini, rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
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Make the Herb Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped mint, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
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Add Feta (Optional): If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
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Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend nicely.
How to Serve Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish or as a light main dish on a warm day. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or your favorite vegetarian options. You can also enjoy it with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.
How to Store Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can stay fresh for up to three days. Keep in mind that the zucchini may release some moisture, so it’s best to eat the salad within a few days for optimal taste and texture.
Tips to Make Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs for the dressing to enhance the flavor of the salad.
- Add Crunch: Consider adding chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Spice it Up: If you like a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Variation
You can customize the salad by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach. You might also substitute the chickpeas for black beans or lentils for a different twist. If you want a vegan option, simply leave out the feta cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can make this salad a few hours before serving. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a gentle toss before serving.
2. Is there a way to prepare this salad without cooking?
Absolutely! You can use the zucchini raw for a crunchy texture. Just dice it and mix it with the other ingredients.
3. Can I use other types of beans instead of chickpeas?
Yes! Black beans, kidney beans, or even white beans would work well in this salad. Just make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly before adding.
Enjoy your delicious Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing!
Print
Zucchini, Chickpea, and Cherry Tomato Salad with Herb Dressing
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and healthy salad featuring zucchini, chickpeas, and cherry tomatoes, dressed with a flavorful herb dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- If desired, lightly sauté the diced zucchini in a pan with a little olive oil over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until slightly softened. This step is optional; you can also use the zucchini raw.
- In a large bowl, mix the diced zucchini, rinsed chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped mint, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- If using, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
- For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crunch, consider adding chopped cucumbers or bell peppers. Customize the salad with additional vegetables or substitute chickpeas with other beans as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
