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Overhead view of a vibrant Chickpea and Black Bean Salad with finely diced red onion and bright green cilantro. (Chickpea and Black Bean Salad)

Chickpea and Black Bean Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing and Feta

A vibrant Chickpea and Black Bean Salad featuring plump legumes, finely diced red onion, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a glistening, translucent lime dressing for a protein-packed, 15-minute healthy meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) Chickpeas Drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) Black Beans Drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup (60g) Red Onion Finely diced
  • 1/2 cup (75g) Feta Cheese Rustically crumbled
  • 1/4 cup (10g) Fresh Cilantro Finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) Fresh Lime Juice Approx 2 small limes
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) Sea Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) Black Pepper Freshly cracked

Equipment

  • 1 Fine Mesh Strainer For rinsing beans to achieve a glossy finish.
  • 1 Chef's Knife For finely dicing the red onion and cilantro.
  • 1 Ceramic serving bowl Neutral toned for visual presentation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place the chickpeas and black beans in a fine-mesh strainer. Rinse under cold water until the water runs clear and the beans appear glossy. Shake well to remove all excess moisture.
  2. Finely dice the red onion into tiny, uniform pieces. Finely chop the fresh cilantro, removing any thick stems.
Mixing
  1. In a small glass jar or bowl, combine lime juice, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until a translucent, glistening emulsion forms.
  2. In a large ceramic bowl, combine the rinsed beans and diced onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until every bean is lightly coated and shiny.
  3. Gently fold in the rustic feta crumbles, being careful not to over-mix. Scatter the abundant cilantro flecks over the top as a final garnish.

Notes

Tip 1. For a mellow onion flavor, soak the diced red onion in ice water for 5 minutes before adding to the salad.
Tip 2. Always use fresh lime juice; bottled juice lacks the bright enzymes needed for that glistening, translucent finish.