Tzatziki Chickpea Salad
This salad combines the freshness of cucumber and herbs with creamy Greek yogurt and chickpeas for a filling, healthy meal. It has all the cool, tangy flavors of tzatziki but with extra protein and fiber from chickpeas. Serve it as a side, light main dish, or even stuffed into pita bread for a wrap.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves:4
Ingredients
For the Salad
1 can (400 g / 15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
1 medium cucumber, diced (or grated & squeezed of excess water)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ small red onion, finely diced
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh dill or parsley, chopped
For the Tzatziki Dressing
1 cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, olives, feta, and dill/parsley.
Toss Together
Pour the tzatziki dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Chill & Serve
For best flavor, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Serve on its own, with warm pita, or as a side to grilled meats/fish.
Notes & Tips
Extra crunch: Add diced bell peppers or shredded carrots.
Make ahead: This salad keeps for 2–3 days in the fridge, but stir before serving as the yogurt may thicken.
Creamier: Add mashed avocado into the dressing for a richer texture.
Low-carb version: Replace chickpeas with chopped zucchini or cauliflower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Yes, but strain it through a cheesecloth to thicken, otherwise the salad may be watery.
Q: Can this be served warm?
A: It’s traditionally enjoyed cold, but you can toss the chickpeas in olive oil and lightly roast them before adding for a warm variation.
Q: Is this a meal or a side dish?
A: It works both ways — add pita or grilled chicken for a complete meal, or serve alongside other Mediterranean dishes.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 240 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Carbs: 27 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 7 g