Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best Mediterranean salad ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Mediterranean Salad:
This salad is brimming with fresh veggies! Feel free to customize with what you have on hand:
Cucumbers – You can use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for Mediterranean salad recipes. Grape Tomatoes – I used grape tomatoes, but any tomatoes would work, including cherry tomatoes, roma tomatoes, plum tomatoes, roasted tomatoes, and even sun-dried tomatoes. Chickpeas – Also known as garbanzo beans, these add protein, fiber, and a delightful nutty flavor. You could also try white beans, kidney beans, or black beans, but I think a Mediterranean chickpea salad works best with the other flavors here. If you have extra beans left over, use them to make oven roasted chickpeas! Bell Peppers – I used diced yellow and red peppers, but you could use any color variety you prefer. You can also use roasted red peppers instead! Red Onion – Red onion offers a crunchy texture and subtle sweetness. You could also use diced yellow onions, vidalia onions, or shallots for a similar flavor and texture. Feta Cheese – A classic choice for a Mediterranean cucumber salad! You can also use crumbled goat cheese or an aged gouda for a different flavor profile. Fresh Herbs – I used fresh parsley and fresh mint, but you can try other fresh herbs such as dill or chives. I don’t recommend using dried herbs here.
Vinaigrette Dressing:
The dressing for this Mediterranean salad is similar to my Greek salad dressing, but this time I cut down on the ingredients to make it even simpler: Black, green, or kalamata olives would make a great addition with the other flavors here. You can also add lettuce or other greens if you like, and just double the dressing if you do.
Olive Oil – Avocado oil would also work, but olive oil pairs best with the other flavors in this salad. Lemon Juice – Fresh squeezed lemon juice has the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice for convenience. You can also substitute red wine vinegar. Dried Oregano – Adds an herby flavor to the dressing. You can also add dried thyme, basil, sage, marjoram, or even Italian seasoning. Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle and earthy flavor. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
How To Make Mediterranean Salad
This section shows how to make Mediterranean chickpea salad, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card. If you like the flavor, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard works nicely in this dressing.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Meal prep: Cut and chop veggies, whisk together dressing, and store in separate airtight containers for 2-3 days. Mix the Mediterranean chopped salad right before serving.
What To Serve With Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
From grilled meats to stuffed vegetables and more, Mediterranean salad recipes are the perfect accompaniment to a healthy, flavorful Mediterranean-style meals. Here are some ideas:
Lamb – For a classic Mediterranean feast, try quick and easy air fryer lamb chops or grilled lamb kofta kebab, or for a fancier dish, lamb shanks in a delicious red wine tomato sauce. I also love it as a quick and easy side for gyros! Seafood – This fresh salad makes a quick and easy side to classic Greek shrimp or even regular baked shrimp. But, I also love it with the flavors of baked cod. Grilled Mains – A fresh Mediterranean cucumber salad is always delicious with skewered meats, like grilled chicken kabobs, quick shrimp skewers, or Greek souvlaki. You can also try it with a juicy sirloin steak! Stuffed Veggies – Try stuffed tomatoes or spinach stuffed mushrooms for a Greek-inspired feast. Chicken – Although you can’t go wrong with juicy baked chicken breasts or simple grilled chicken thighs, it would be simply elegant with Mediterranean chicken or balsamic chicken.
More Mediterranean Salad Recipes
Enjoy a variety of delicious, healthy salads with these easy-to-make fresh salad recipes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. They are perfect for any occasion and will bring a flavorful twist to any meal! Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email. Nutrition info does not include optional ingredients.
