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Tzatziki Chickpea Salad Recipe

4.5 from 134 reviews

A refreshing and healthy Tzatziki Chickpea Salad combining creamy Greek yogurt, crisp cucumbers, and protein-rich chickpeas, enhanced with fresh dill, garlic, and capers. Perfect as a side dish, sandwich filling, or light meal, this salad melds Mediterranean flavors with wholesome ingredients for a versatile and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Tzatziki Base

  • 2 cucumbers, grated and excess water squeezed out very well (about 3/4 cup once squeezed)
  • 1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt (or thick plain yogurt)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh dill, plus extra for sprinkling (or half the quantity chopped fresh mint)
  • 1 large garlic clove, crushed using garlic press or finely minced
  • 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 x 400g / 14 oz cans chickpeas, well drained
  • 3/4 cup finely sliced celery (from 12 stems)
  • 2 tbsp chopped capers (can substitute cornichons or dill pickles)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Tzatziki Base: In a large bowl, combine the grated cucumbers, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, chopped fresh dill, crushed garlic, and salt. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  2. Add Salad Ingredients: To the tzatziki mixture, add the drained chickpeas, sliced celery, and chopped capers. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  3. Let Flavors Meld: Although it can be served immediately, set the salad aside for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend, particularly the saltiness from the capers and the pungency of garlic. The taste improves even more when refrigerated overnight.
  4. Serve: When ready to serve, drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top and sprinkle additional fresh dill for garnish. Enjoy as is.
  5. Serving Suggestions: Use the salad as a side dish, stuff it into sandwiches or wraps (adding avocado for creaminess and binding), or boost the protein by adding chicken or canned tuna for a more substantial meal.

Notes

  • Note 1: You can substitute the fresh dill with fresh mint (use half the quantity).
  • Note 2: If using dried chickpeas, soak and cook them beforehand before adding.
  • The saltiness of capers varies, so taste before adding extra salt.
  • This salad is best enjoyed after resting to allow flavors to meld, but it can be eaten immediately if needed.

Keywords: Tzatziki, Chickpea Salad, Greek Yogurt Salad, Mediterranean Salad, Vegetarian Salad, Healthy Salad, No-Cook Recipe