A Mediterranean-inspired chickpea salad bursting with bold Provençal flavors, featuring crisp celery, briny black olives, anchovies, and fresh herbs tossed in a zesty lemon dressing. This vibrant salad is perfect as a light meal, a flavorful side dish, or a refreshing appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with Mediterranean Flavors – Briny olives, salty anchovies, and fresh herbs make every bite deliciously complex.
• Protein-Packed and Satisfying – Chickpeas provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• Quick and Easy – With minimal prep and no cooking required, this salad is ready in just 25 minutes.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – The flavors only get better as it sits, making it a great make-ahead dish.
• Versatile and Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• ½ cup black olives (Kalamata or Niçoise), pitted
• 4 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Slice the celery and green onions, finely chop the anchovies, and roughly chop the parsley.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

3. Toss the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, celery, olives, anchovies, green onions, parsley, and capers (if using). Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.

4. Let It Marinate

Allow the salad to sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Garnish with extra parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad pairs well with crusty bread or grilled seafood.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Calories per Serving: 220 kcal

Variations

• Make It Vegetarian – Omit the anchovies and add crumbled feta or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
• Add More Freshness – Mix in diced cucumber or cherry tomatoes for a refreshing twist.
• Spicy Version – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Lemonier Dressing – Increase the lemon juice for a brighter, tangier taste.
• Hearty Additions – Toss in cooked quinoa or farro for extra texture and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
• Not Freezer-Friendly: Due to the fresh vegetables and dressing, this salad is best enjoyed fresh.
• Serving Tip: If refrigerated, let the salad sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours as the flavors meld together.

2. Can I use canned black olives instead of Kalamata or Niçoise?

You can, but Kalamata or Niçoise olives provide a deeper, brinier flavor that complements the anchovies well.

3. How do I make this salad less salty?

Rinse the anchovies and capers before adding them, and use low-sodium chickpeas.

4. What can I substitute for anchovies?

If you don’t like anchovies, try adding crumbled feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar umami flavor.

5. Can I use white beans instead of chickpeas?

Yes! Cannellini or Great Northern beans work well as a substitute.

6. Is this salad keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it keto-friendly.

7. What protein can I add to make this a complete meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or canned tuna pair well with this salad.

8. Can I use bottled dressing instead?

Homemade dressing gives the best flavor, but a high-quality Mediterranean vinaigrette can be used for convenience.

9. What should I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

10. Can I add more greens to this salad?

Yes! Try adding arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for extra freshness.

Conclusion

This Provençal Chickpea Salad with Olives & Anchovies is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the Mediterranean. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal or side dish. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with fresh bread, or served alongside seafood, this salad is a refreshing addition to any table. Try it today and savor the bold Provençal flavors!