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Whipped Feta & Crispy Chickpea Bowl with Cucumber, Mint, Lemon & Chili Oil


  • Author: Chef Lalybeth
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A fresh and flavorful bowl featuring creamy whipped feta, crispy spiced chickpeas, cool cucumber, mint, and a zesty lemon-chili oil. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the whipped feta:
  • 8 oz feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the crispy chickpeas:
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • For the chili oil:
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • For the bowl assembly:
  • 1 large cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 2 cups mixed greens or arugula
  • Optional: warm pita bread or flatbread for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the chili oil: In a small saucepan, warm the olive oil with red pepper flakes and lemon zest over low heat for 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
  2. Make the whipped feta: In a food processor, combine crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl.
  3. Make the crispy chickpeas: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, and salt. Spread in a single layer. Roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway, until golden and crispy.
  4. Assemble the bowls: Divide the greens among serving bowls. Dollop the whipped feta on the side. Top with diced cucumber, crispy chickpeas, and fresh mint. Drizzle with the chili oil. Serve immediately with warm pita if desired.

Notes

To make this bowl vegan, substitute the feta with a vegan feta alternative and use plant-based yogurt. The chili oil can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Method: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Protein: 18 g