Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon

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Bright, bold, and bursting with goodness, this Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon is the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating feel effortless. Each bite combines earthy beets, creamy feta, protein-rich chickpeas, and a vibrant lemon dressing that ties it all together with a zingy finish.

Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or just a refreshing lunch, this salad is more than just colorful on the plate. It delivers layers of flavor and nutrition that will leave you feeling nourished without ever sacrificing taste. Plus, it comes together in minutes, making it a go-to dish when you want something hearty yet fresh.

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad

You’ll love how this salad balances contrasting textures and flavors. The chickpeas add a satisfying bite, while the roasted or steamed beets bring subtle sweetness. Feta lends a creamy saltiness that complements the tang of fresh lemon juice and zest. It’s hearty enough to be a standalone lunch and pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins for a fuller meal.

It’s also incredibly flexible. You can prep it ahead of time, enjoy it cold or room temperature, and even make it dairy-free by omitting or replacing the feta. Whether you’re eating clean or just craving a salad that isn’t boring, this one checks all the boxes.

What Kind of Beets Should I Use?

You can use any kind of cooked beets you like for this salad: roasted, steamed, or vacuum-sealed pre-cooked beets work great. Roasting intensifies their sweetness and adds a little char, while steaming gives them a softer, more delicate flavor. Red beets are classic, but golden or candy-striped chioggia beets make for an especially eye-catching dish.

Ingredients for the Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon

This salad is all about simple ingredients working in harmony. Each one has its role in bringing bold flavor and texture to the bowl.

• Chickpeas
• Beets
• Feta Cheese
• Lemon Juice
• Lemon Zest
• Olive Oil
• Red Onion
• Fresh Parsley
• Salt
• Black Pepper

You’ll need chickpeas (either canned or cooked from dry) as the base of the salad, offering plant-based protein and fiber. Beets add sweetness, color, and a dose of antioxidants. Feta cheese gives a tangy, salty contrast that balances everything out. The dressing is built from lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil for a zesty freshness. Thinly sliced red onion adds sharpness, while fresh parsley brings a hit of green brightness. Finish with a bit of salt and black pepper to taste.

How To Make the Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon

Step 1: Prepare the Beets

If using raw beets, scrub and roast or steam them until fork-tender, then let them cool before peeling and chopping into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, add the drained chickpeas, chopped beets, and crumbled feta.

Step 3: Add Freshness

Thinly slice the red onion and roughly chop the parsley. Add both to the bowl with the chickpeas and beets.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Toss and Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything to combine without breaking up the beets too much. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

How to Serve and Store This Vibrant Salad

This Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon serves about 4 as a light meal or up to 6 as a side dish. It’s fantastic chilled and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for weekly meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the feta from getting too soft, you can stir it in just before serving.

What to Serve With Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad?

Grilled Chicken

Simple grilled or baked chicken breast makes a protein-packed companion.

Falafel

Add a Mediterranean twist by serving this salad with warm falafel.

Pita and Hummus

Pair it with toasted pita bread and creamy hummus for a full vegetarian spread.

Quinoa or Couscous

Serve the salad over a bed of cooked quinoa or couscous to make it more filling.

Salmon

Top with grilled or smoked salmon for a luxe but easy lunch.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The sweet and savory combo is pure comfort food.

Lentil Soup

This salad pairs beautifully with a warm bowl of lentil soup, especially on cooler days.

Want More Salad Ideas That Satisfy?

If this colorful salad hit the spot, don’t miss out on these other fresh favorites:

• Apple Salad with crunchy texture and sweet-tart flavor.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup if you love hearty comfort with a side of greens.
• Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken for a zesty, herby bite.
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri for a protein-forward option that’s still light and bright.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you try it, let me know how yours turned out! Did you go with red or golden beets? Crumbled goat cheese instead of feta? I love hearing your takes on these recipes.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for colorful, feel-good recipes.

Conclusion

This Chickpea, Beet & Feta Salad with Lemon is proof that simple ingredients can make the most memorable dishes. With minimal prep and maximum payoff, it brings together nourishment, flavor, and vibrant color in every forkful. Whether you make it once or add it to your weekly rotation, it’s bound to become a favorite that tastes like sunshine on a plate.

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