Beet, Chickpea & Feta Salad (Mediterranean-Style)

Beet, Chickpea & Feta Salad (Mediterranean-Style)

Flavor Profile

Earthy roasted beets • creamy feta • nutty chickpeas • bright lemon • fresh herbs


Ingredients (Serves 4)

Salad

  • 2 cups roasted beets, peeled & cubed (about 3 medium beets)

  • 1½ cups cooked chickpeas (1 can, drained & rinsed)

  • ¾ cup feta cheese, cut into small cubes

  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1–2 tablespoons fresh dill or mint (optional but amazing)

  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Lemon Olive Oil Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 1½ tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated

  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Beets

If not already cooked:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C)

  2. Scrub beets and wrap each loosely in foil

  3. Roast for 45–60 minutes, until fork-tender

  4. Cool slightly, rub skins off with a towel

  5. Cut into ½–¾ inch cubes

💡 Shortcut: Use vacuum-packed cooked beets.


2. Prep the Chickpeas

  • Drain and rinse chickpeas well

  • Pat dry with a towel

👉 Optional upgrade:
Toss chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil and roast at 400°F for 15–20 minutes for extra texture.


3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar:

  • Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, salt & pepper

  • Taste and adjust acidity or salt

The dressing should be bright and slightly punchy—it mellows once mixed.


4. Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl:

  1. Add beets and chickpeas

  2. Pour dressing over and gently toss

  3. Fold in feta cubes carefully (don’t mash them)

  4. Sprinkle chopped herbs on top

  5. Finish with cracked black pepper


5. Rest & Serve

  • Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving
    → flavors blend beautifully

  • Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature


Optional Add-Ins (Highly Recommend)

  • Toasted walnuts or pistachios 🌰

  • Thinly sliced red onion or shallot

  • Baby arugula or spinach

  • Drizzle of honey or pomegranate molasses

  • Splash of red wine vinegar for extra tang


How to Serve It

  • As a side with grilled chicken or fish

  • Stuffed into pita with hummus

  • On toast with whipped ricotta

  • As a meal salad with quinoa or farro


Storage Tips

  • Keeps 3–4 days in the fridge

  • Add feta fresh if meal-prepping

  • Flavors get even better overnight

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