As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
This vibrant summer salad is brimming with fresh flavors and abundant protein, perfect for warm days when you want something light but sustaining. Featuring a medley of colorful veggies, hearty chickpeas, and a tangy citrus dressing, it’s the ideal combination of healthfulness and summertime indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or your favorite grain)
- 1 cup chopped cucumbers
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (omit or substitute with tofu feta if vegan)
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
To assemble this high-protein salad, start by spreading your quinoa across a large serving platter or in a wide salad bowl. Next, scatter the chickpeas over the top, followed by the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Try to arrange them in an eye-pleasing pattern – it’s summertime after all, so we want those colors to truly shine!
For the zesty dressing, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, and chili flakes (if you’re craving a little heat). Season with a generous pinch of salt and a few grinds of fresh black pepper. Drizzle the dressing evenly across the entire salad, ensuring each ingredient gets a burst of flavor.
Finally, sprinkle on the crumbled feta cheese or its vegan-friendly alternative. Give everything a gentle toss, and you’re ready to serve this summery showstopper.
This high-protein summer salad is the perfect dish for anyone looking to power up on protein without sacrificing bright, seasonal freshness. It caters to vegetarians, can be made vegan with a simple cheese swap, and provides a balanced blend of flavors and nutrients. Feel free to experiment with add-ons, like grilled tofu or chopped avocado, to suit your preferences. Savor it as a light main meal or bring it along to picnics and outdoor gatherings – it’s bound to delight your taste buds and keep you feeling nourished.
