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Feta Cranberry Chickpeas Salad: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe for Every Occasion

This Chickpea and Spinach Salad features a refreshing blend of chickpeas, fresh greens, creamy feta, and sweet cranberries, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s a nutritious and satisfying option for a light lunch or as a side dish.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 cup arugula, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Open the can of chickpeas, drain them in a colander, and rinse under cold water to remove excess sodium and canning liquid.
  2. Chop the fresh spinach and arugula into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Crumble the feta cheese into small pieces and add it to the bowl with the greens.
  4. Measure and toss the dried cranberries into the bowl.
  5. Finely chop the red onion. If sensitive to raw onion, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and add to the salad bowl.
  6. If using, chop the walnuts coarsely and optionally toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.
  7. In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper.
  8. Whisk the dressing in a bowl or shake it in a jar until emulsified.
  9. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
  10. Using two large spoons or salad tongs, gently toss the salad to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
  11. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar if needed.
  12. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to meld flavors, or serve immediately.
  13. Serve the salad individually or family-style in the mixing bowl.
  14. Sprinkle additional feta, walnuts, or cranberries on top before serving.
  15. Serve and enjoy this nutritious salad as a light lunch, side dish, or meal prep option.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado.
  • For a vegan option, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
  • Author: Aria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes