Chickpea Cucumber Tomato Salad (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Base

01 - 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
02 - 2 cups chopped English cucumber (approximately 2/3 of 1 medium)
03 - 1 1/4 cups chopped Roma tomatoes (about 2 medium)
04 - 1/4 cup chopped red onion
05 - 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

→ Dressing

06 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
08 - 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Additions

11 - 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
12 - 1 (5 oz) can tuna in water, well drained
13 - 1 avocado, diced
14 - 3/4 cup cooked quinoa
15 - 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata or black olives

# Instructions:

01 - Place chickpeas, chopped cucumber, Roma tomatoes, red onion, and parsley into a large mixing bowl.
02 - In a liquid measuring cup, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until emulsified.
03 - Pour the prepared dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure even coating. Adjust seasoning to taste.
04 - Serve immediately at room temperature, or refrigerate and consume within a few hours for optimal texture.

# Notes:

01 - Garden cucumbers can be used if peeled; grape tomatoes may substitute Roma tomatoes in equal measure.
02 - Red or white wine vinegar may replace the lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
03 - Salad maintains freshness for several days but offers optimal texture within hours of preparation.