Mediterranean Bean Salad

This Mediterranean bean salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It's made with chickpeas, lentils, red onion, cucumber, red bell pepper, parsley, and feta cheese, and tossed in a simple lemon vinaigrette. The salad is easy to make and can be served immediately or chilled for later.

The Mediterranean bean salad is a dish that has been enjoyed for centuries in the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It is believed to have originated in Greece, where it was known as "fasolada". Fasolada was traditionally made with dried beans, such as chickpeas or lentils, that were cooked in a flavorful broth made with olive oil, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Over time, the dish evolved to include other ingredients, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, and feta cheese. Today, there are many different variations of Mediterranean bean salad, but the basic ingredients remain the same.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpea
• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Lemon vinaigrette

Instructions

1. Cook the chickpea and lentils according to the package directions.
2. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl.
3. Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The combination of chickpeas and lentils provides a good source of protein and fiber.
• The red onion, cucumber, and bell pepper add a nice crunch and freshness to the salad.
• The parsley adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.
• The feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor and a creamy texture.
• The lemon vinaigrette is a simple but flavorful dressing that ties all the ingredients together.