Chickpea Peach Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the ideal combination of fresh and filling. The chickpeas add protein and substance, while the peaches bring natural sweetness and juiciness. The honey-lime dressing is quick to whisk together, delivering a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and zesty flavors. It’s easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and works just as well for a light lunch as it does for a dinner side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chickpeas

• Peaches

• Red onion

• Cucumber

• Fresh mint leaves

• Feta cheese, crumbled

• Fresh lime juice

• Honey

• Olive oil

• Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper

Directions

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, peaches, red onion, cucumber, and mint. Add crumbled feta if desired.

3. Pour the honey-lime dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.

4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap peaches for nectarines, mangoes, or plums for a twist.

• Use basil or cilantro instead of mint for a different herbal note.

• Add arugula or baby spinach to make it more of a leafy green salad.

• Replace feta with goat cheese for extra creaminess.

• Toss in toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store the dressing separately and mix just before serving to keep the salad fresh. This recipe is best served chilled and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Fresh peaches are best for texture and flavor, but well-drained canned peaches can work in a pinch.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative, and swap honey for maple syrup or agave.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving.

What protein can I add to make it a full meal?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salmon pair wonderfully with this salad.

Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?

Fresh mint provides the best flavor, but a small amount of dried mint can be used if fresh isn’t available.

How do I keep the peaches from browning?

Toss them with a little lime juice before adding to the salad to preserve their color.

Can I substitute chickpeas with another legume?

Yes, white beans or cannellini beans make a great alternative.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add grains to make it heartier?

Absolutely—quinoa, farro, or couscous would make a great addition.

How long should the salad chill before serving?

At least 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld, but you can chill it longer for an even more refreshing taste.

Conclusion

Chickpea peach salad with honey lime dressing is a bright, fresh, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer. With its juicy peaches, hearty chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and tangy-sweet dressing, it’s versatile enough to serve as a side or enjoy as a light main course. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant ingredients, this salad is sure to become a go-to favorite for warm weather meals.