This Easy Chopped Greek Salad with Feta and Chickpeas is a medley of crisp textures and bold flavors, perfect for any occasion. Each bite bursts with vibrant freshness, from the crunch of iceberg lettuce to the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the crisp crunch of cucumber. Creamy, tangy feta cheese and briny olives add richness, while hearty chickpeas provide a satisfying, protein-packed twist on a classic favorite. A zesty Greek vinaigrette seeps into every layer, coating the salad in its signature tangy herbaceousness.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy salad or a healthy lunch idea, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a refreshing side for any meal. It also doubles as an easy healthy meal on its own, light yet filling. Whether you’re planning a quick and easy meal or a dish to impress guests, this Chopped Greek Salad checks all the boxes.

Last Updated Ferbuary 22nd, 2025.

Contents (show)

Why You’ll Love this Greek Salad Recipe:

Simple Yet Satisfying: This easy healthy salad is quick to prepare with fresh, everyday ingredients, yet it delivers bold Mediterranean flavors that feel like a special treat. With feta cheese, chickpeas, and a tangy Greek vinaigrette, it’s the perfect combination of simplicity and satisfaction.
Versatile and Adaptable: Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish alongside grilled meats, or a hearty main course with extra chickpeas or grilled chicken, this Greek Salad is incredibly adaptable to your tastes and dietary preferences.
Bursting with Texture and Flavor: From the crisp crunch of iceberg lettuce and the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes to the creamy feta and briny olives, every bite is a satisfying balance of textures and bold flavors. The Greek vinaigrette pulls everything together, adding a tangy, herb-infused finish that makes this salad stand out.
Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with fresh vegetables, plant-based protein from chickpeas, and a light, flavorful dressing, this salad is a healthy lunch idea you can feel good about. It’s the ultimate easy healthy meal that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor.

Chopped Greek Salad Ingredient Notes:

Iceberg Lettuce:
- Crisp and refreshing, iceberg lettuce serves as the perfect base for this easy Greek salad, providing a satisfying crunch and lightness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Cherry Tomatoes:
- These sweet, juicy cherry tomatoes deliver a burst of flavor with each bite. Their vibrant color adds a lively pop to the salad, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Red Onion:
- Thinly diced, red onion offers a sharp, tangy bite that contrasts perfectly with the richness of feta cheese and the briny olives, enhancing the overall Mediterranean salad flavor profile.
Green Onion:
- The mild, fresh flavor of green onion adds a touch of brightness to this feta cheese salad. It balances the sharper notes of the red onion while boosting the salad’s overall freshness.
Chickpeas:
- Chickpeas not only pack this salad with plant-based protein, but their creamy texture also adds substance and richness. They make this chickpea salad both filling and satisfying, whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty main dish.
Cucumber:
- Cool and crisp, cucumber is a hydrating vegetable that brings a refreshing crunch to every bite. It pairs beautifully with the other ingredients, providing a light, clean taste.
Olives:
- Salty and briny, olives are a must-have in any Greek salad. They infuse the dish with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Use Kalamata olives for a classic choice, or opt for your favorite variety for a unique twist.
Feta Cheese:
- The creamy, tangy feta cheese is the heart of this salad, delivering that signature Greek flavor. It ties all the ingredients together, providing richness and depth to each bite.
Greek Vinaigrette:
- A bright and zesty Greek vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs adds a refreshing, tangy finish to the salad. It perfectly complements the bold flavors of the fresh ingredients.

Dietary Restriction & Allergy- Friendly Substitutions:

To Make Dairy-Free:
- To make this salad dairy-free, simply swap the feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative like crumbled almond or coconut-based feta (such as Violife’s Just like Feta Cheese). This will provide the same creamy texture and tang without the dairy, making it a great choice for anyone avoiding dairy.
Vegan:
- For a vegan version of this Chopped Greek Salad,use dairy-free feta and ensure that your Greek vinaigrette doesn’t contain honey. Opt for a vegan-friendly vinaigrette to keep it fully plant-based.
Gluten-Free:
- This salad is naturally gluten-free as written, but always double-check the label on your Greek vinaigrette (if using store-bought) to ensure no hidden gluten-containing ingredients are included. It’s an easy and fresh gluten-free meal option!
Low-Sodium:
- To make this healthy salad low-sodium, use low-sodium canned chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt. You can also reduce the amount of olives or choose unsalted varieties. For even more control over the salt content, make your own Greek vinaigrette at home.
Nut-Free:
- This recipe is naturally nut-free, but if you’re using store-bought dressings, be sure to check for any cross-contamination warnings if you’re serving someone with a severe nut allergy.
Low-FODMAP:
- For a Low-FODMAP version, use only the green parts of green onions in place of red onions. Limit the amount of chickpeas to a small serving, and ensure the Greek vinaigrette is free from garlic or onions for a gentle, digestive-friendly dish.

Additional Substitutions & Variations:

Add Protein: To turn this Chopped Greek Salad into a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even grilled steak. For a plant-based protein option, tofu or tempeh can be excellent additions, ensuring the salad remains hearty and satisfying.
Swap the Greens: While iceberg lettuce provides the perfect crunch, you can swap it out for other leafy greens like romaine lettuce or baby spinach for a slightly different flavor and texture. These greens will still offer a fresh and crisp base for the salad.
Change Up the Cheese: While feta cheese is a classic Greek salad staple, you can experiment with other cheeses for a unique twist. Try goat cheese for a tangy, creamy alternative, or crumbled blue cheese for a bolder, more pungent flavor. For a dairy-free version, vegan feta or dairy-free cheese will keep the salad creamy without the dairy.
Add More Veggies: This salad is highly adaptable, so feel free to add extra veggies to suit your preferences or what’s in season. Try bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch, artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean touch, or roasted beets for a pop of color and earthy flavor.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, jalapeños or red pepper flakes can be added to the salad or the dressing. A dash of hot sauce in your Greek vinaigrette is another simple way to add a spicy kick.
Dress It Differently: While Greek vinaigrette is the traditional choice, you can switch up the dressing to match your flavor preferences. A balsamic vinaigrette can add a sweet and tangy contrast to the fresh Greek salad flavors.
Add Fruit: For a refreshing contrast to the savory elements, try adding sliced strawberries or orange segments. The natural sweetness from the fruit pairs well with the salty olives and feta, offering a surprising flavor combination.

Expert Tips & Recipe Notes:

Chop Everything Evenly:
- For the best texture and balanced flavor in every bite, be sure to chop your veggies into similarly sized pieces. This way, you’ll get a little bit of everything in each forkful—from the crispy iceberg lettuce to the juicy tomatoes and creamy feta. A uniform chop ensures the perfect bite every time in this easy chopped salad.
Crispy Chickpeas:
- For added crunch and flavor, try roasting your chickpeas! Coat them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, then bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. The result is a crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the fresh veggies in the salad, creating a delightful contrast in each bite.
Vinaigrette Balance:
- The Greek vinaigrette brings everything together, but if you find it too tangy, balance the acidity by adding a touch of honey or agave syrup. If you prefer more of a zesty punch, add extra lemon juice or vinegar to elevate the tanginess and bring out the Mediterranean flavors.
Marinate for Extra Flavor:
- For the most flavorful result, give your salad a little time to marinate. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the veggies to soak up the vinaigrette and meld the flavors together. The wait will make this quick Mediterranean salad recipe even more delicious!
Add-Ins for Extra Protein:
- Want to make this salad a full meal? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even quinoa are great sources of protein that will turn your Chopped Greek Salad into a hearty, satisfying dish. For extra flavor, consider adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to bring in a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
Seasoning is Key:
- Don’t forget to season your salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A pinch of dried oregano, basil, or even a dash of red pepper flakes will enhance the Greek-inspired flavors, bringing out the vibrant, herbaceous notes.
Serving Suggestions:
- This Chopped Greek Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or pair it with a gluten-free pita for an entirely Gluten-Free Greek Salad Recipe, or warm crusty bread for a light, yet filling lunch or dinner. For a fuller meal, try pairing it with grilled chicken or lamb for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Chopped Greek Salad FAQ’s:

Can I make Chopped Greek Salad ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to wait until serving to add the Greek vinaigrette. Chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce can become soggy if left to sit with the dressing for too long. For the freshest results, assemble the salad, store the components separately, and dress it just before serving.
How long will this Chopped Greek Salad last in the fridge?
- This salad is best enjoyed within 2 days of making it. While it will last in the fridge for up to 3 days, the lettuce and tomatoes may lose their crispness over time. To extend the freshness, store the Greek vinaigrette separately and add it right before serving.
What can I use instead of chickpeas?
- If you want to swap out chickpeas, try cooked quinoa, grilled chicken, tofu, or canned white beans as alternative protein sources. These will maintain the heartiness of this healthy salad with Greek Vinaigrette Dressing while keeping it satisfying and nutritious.
Can I make this salad vegan?
- Yes! To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based option like vegan feta or omit it altogether. Additionally, check that your Greek vinaigrette is honey-free and use a vegan-friendly dressing.
Can I substitute a different dressing for Greek vinaigrette?
- While Greek vinaigrette is the signature dressing for this salad, you can certainly try other options like balsamic vinaigrette, lemon-tahini dressing, or even a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. However, the tangy, herbaceous Greek vinaigrette truly enhances the Mediterranean flavors of this salad.
Can I make a low-carb version of this salad?
- Yes! This salad is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. Just make sure to skip or reduce the chickpeas and use a low-carb dressing. Stick to low-carb veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce to keep the salad in line with a keto or low-carb diet.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- To keep leftovers fresh, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. If you have any leftover Greek vinaigrette, store it separately to avoid the salad getting soggy. The vegetables will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days, but the texture may start to soften after that.
What is the best type of olives for Chopped Greek Salad?
- Kalamata olives are the traditional choice for Greek salad because of their bold, briny flavor. However, you can also use green olives, black olives, or Cerignola olives based on your personal preference.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
- Yes! Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Some great additions include red bell peppers, artichoke hearts, cucamelons, or shredded carrots. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

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