Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Ingredients

• 30 oz canned chickpeas
• 1 large cucumber
• 1½ cup cherry tomatoes
• ½ red onion
• 1 bell pepper
• ½ cup fresh parsley
• ¼ cup fresh mint (optional)
• 4 oz feta cheese (optional)
• 1 lemon
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Steps

1. Rinse and drain the chickpeas. Dice the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. If using, crumble in the fresh mint and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of one lemon, olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
5. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve as a side dish or a light main course.