Antipasto Chickpea Salad
This salad brings together the bold flavors of an Italian antipasto platter with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas. It’s loaded with marinated veggies, olives, artichokes, and fresh herbs, making it a vibrant dish perfect for lunch, picnics, or as a side at a Mediterranean feast.
Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
½ cup Kalamata or mixed olives, pitted and halved
½ cup cucumber, diced (optional for freshness)
¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
½ cup vegan mozzarella pearls or cubed (or regular if not vegan)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
2. Assemble the salad
In a large bowl, add chickpeas, artichokes, roasted peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add herbs & cheese
Fold in parsley, basil, and vegan mozzarella (if using).
4. Toss & chill
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Chill for 20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes & Tips
Make ahead: Flavors develop even more after a few hours in the fridge.
Cheese swaps: If vegan, use marinated tofu cubes instead of mozzarella.
Add-ins: Roasted zucchini, pepperoncini, or grilled eggplant also work beautifully.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this oil-free?
A: Yes—replace olive oil with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for a lighter dressing.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Keeps in the fridge for 3–4 days, great for meal prep.
Q: Can I use dry chickpeas?
A: Absolutely—just cook them until tender before adding.
Nutrition information
Calories: 310
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Carbs: 34g
Fiber: 9g