🥗 Mediterranean Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad with Orange Vinaigrette

🌿 Description

This vibrant Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad is a perfect Mediterranean-style dish — fresh, hearty, and naturally sweet-tangy. Protein-rich chickpeas pair beautifully with tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, crisp vegetables, and a bright orange vinaigrette made with extra virgin olive oil.

It’s ideal for meal prep, light lunches, or as a colorful side dish for gatherings. Packed with fiber, plant protein, and heart-healthy fats, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Salad:

2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained & rinsed)
½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if possible)
½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
1 small red onion, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup crumbled feta (optional)

Orange Vinaigrette:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh orange juice
1 tsp orange zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 small garlic clove, minced
Salt & black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare Chickpeas

If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain well. Pat dry.

2️⃣ Make Vinaigrette

In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, orange juice, zest, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

3️⃣ Combine Salad

In a large bowl, add chickpeas, cranberries, walnuts, red onion, celery, parsley, and feta (if using).

4️⃣ Toss

Pour vinaigrette over salad and toss gently until well coated.

5️⃣ Chill

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

🌿 Mediterranean Tips

Toast walnuts lightly for deeper flavor.
Add chopped cucumber for extra freshness.
Swap feta for goat cheese or leave it vegan.
Add arugula or baby spinach for more greens.

🥗 Serving Ideas

Serve over mixed greens.
Stuff into whole-grain pita bread.
Pair with grilled chicken or salmon.
Enjoy as a protein-rich meal prep option.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make this vegan?
Yes — simply omit the feta cheese.

Q2: How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Q3: Can I use fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are very tart; dried works best. If using fresh, chop finely and use less.

Q4: Is this good for weight management?
Yes! It’s high in fiber and protein, which helps keep you full longer.

Q5: Can I substitute another nut?
Absolutely — almonds or pecans work beautifully.