Zucchini and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A fresh Mediterranean salad combining crisp zucchini ribbons, protein-rich chickpeas, and a tangy lemon tahini dressing. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegetarian, mediterranean) ready in about 15 minutes blends medium, shaved into ribbons zucchini, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh parsley into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Use a vegetable peeler to shave 2 medium zucchinis into thin ribbons and place in a large salad bowl.
  2. Step 2: Add 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed chickpeas, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley to the bowl.
  3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp tahini, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tbsp olive oil, and 2 tbsp water until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Season the dressing with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, then pour over the salad.
  5. Step 5: Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve immediately or chilled.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Zucchini and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Zucchini and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Zucchini and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Zucchini and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Zucchini and Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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