There’s a certain joy in returning to the kitchen after a long day, especially when you have a simple yet vibrant dish waiting to be whipped up. Enter the Divorce Salad—an unexpected star that combines the heartiness of chickpeas and black beans with the tangy pop of feta and crispness of red onion. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those busy weeks when fast food simply wouldn’t cut it. This salad not only satisfies my craving for wholesome food but also makes meal prep a breeze—perfect for those hectic weekdays.
Imagine opening your fridge to discover a colorful bowl of goodness, ready to be devoured. Each bite is a delightful dance of creamy textures and fresh flavors, promising to uplift your spirits without weighing you down. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a side dish to impress, or a tempting dinner option, this Divorce Salad proves that healthy eating can be both easy and enjoyable. Let’s dive into this delicious and nourishing recipe that’s sure to brighten up your week!
Why is Divorce Salad the ultimate meal prep?
Vibrant flavors come together in this delightful salad, where every ingredient shines.
Quick prep means you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy nights.
Nutrient-packed with chickpeas and black beans, it offers protein and fiber that’s satisfying.
Versatile options allow you to customize with add-ins like cucumbers or fresh herbs to suit your palate.
Meal prep friendly: Enjoy it fresh for days, as flavors only get better in the fridge!
Divorce Salad Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious Divorce Salad!
For the Base
- Chickpeas – a protein-packed base that adds heartiness; remember to rinse well to cut down on sodium.
- Black Beans – enhances creaminess and boosts protein; also rinse thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
For the Salad
- Red Onion – adds crispness and a touch of sharpness; slice thinly, and soak in water for a milder taste if preferred.
- Feta Cheese – provides a tangy punch; if you’re looking for a substitute, goat cheese or sharp cheddar works well.
For the Dressing
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – crucial for richness in your dressing; choose a high-quality oil for the best flavor.
- Red Wine Vinegar – delivers the tang needed for a well-balanced dressing; don’t skip this!
- Dried Oregano – brings herbaceous notes; fresh herbs are a great alternative if you have them.
- Salt & Black Pepper – essential seasonings that elevate the overall taste of your Divorce Salad.
How to Make Divorce Salad
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Combine Beans: In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed chickpeas and black beans. This hearty base will give you a protein-packed salad full of great texture.
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Whisk Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well emulsified. This dressing will bring a delightful tang to your salad!
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Dress the Beans: Pour the dressing over the bean mixture, and gently toss to coat. Ensure each bean is beautifully dressed for maximum flavor!
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Add Vegetables: Fold in the thinly sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese, along with parsley if desired. Toss everything gently to preserve the textures while mixing.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—preferably longer—to let those flavors meld together beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of freshness before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Divorce Salad
Fridge: Keep your Divorce Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the ingredients fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the salad without feta or dressing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Reheating: If chilled, enjoy your salad cold as it’s meant to be a refreshing dish! If you prefer, you could warm it slightly, but avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Airtight Storage: Always use an airtight container to prevent the absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge, ensuring your Divorce Salad remains delicious and inviting!
Make Ahead Options
These easy make-ahead Divorce Salad is perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chickpeas, black beans, and dressing up to 3 days in advance. Simply combine the rinsed beans in a large bowl and whisk the dressing ingredients in a separate container, storing them both in the fridge. To maintain freshness, store the chopped red onion and crumbled feta separately, adding them just before serving to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy the salad, mix everything together, allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes, and relish a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
What to Serve with Divorce Salad?
Imagine delighting in a colorful and nourishing spread that complements your flavorful Divorce Salad, making every meal a celebration.
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Whole Grain Bread: Offers a hearty base for scooping and pairs perfectly with the creamy beans. It’s an easy way to add texture to your meal.
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Grilled Chicken: A protein-packed companion that adds a savory note to your salad. The smoky flavor from grilling elevates the overall dish.
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Cucumber Yogurt Dip: A creamy yet refreshing dip that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s texture. It brings a cooling effect, making every bite feel bright.
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Roasted Vegetables: Adding earthy flavors with lightly charred notes creates a warm complement. Try zucchini and bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the salad’s texture and contributes healthy fats. A simple yet luxurious addition that feels indulgent.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a light and bubbly drink, lemon-infused sparkling water cleanses your palate. It keeps the dining experience refreshing and uplifting.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this velvety dessert. Its rich, creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the freshness of the salad.
Divorce Salad Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this salad, enhancing flavors and textures to match your taste buds!
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Cucumber Crunch: Add diced cucumber for extra refreshing crunch and a cool texture that lifts the salad.
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Colorful Bell Peppers: Stir in chopped bell peppers for vibrant hues and a hint of sweetness, making each bite a cheerful experience.
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Zesty Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens flavors and adds a refreshing zing that complements the savory elements.
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Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist that adds aromatic depth to your salad, transforming its character entirely.
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Creamy Avocado: Incorporate diced avocado into the mix for a rich, creamy texture that elevates the overall indulgence—simply heavenly!
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, perfect for those who love extra heat in their meals.
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Grain Boost: Include cooked quinoa or farro for a hearty touch; it adds more fiber and makes this salad even more filling.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted walnuts or almonds for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that complements the beans beautifully.
Expert Tips for Divorce Salad
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Rinse Beans Properly: Thoroughly rinsing the chickpeas and black beans helps reduce sodium and enhances the salad’s flavor. Don’t skip this step!
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Chill for Flavor: Allow your Divorce Salad to chill for at least 30 minutes—ideally a few hours or overnight—to allow the flavors to develop fully.
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Adjust Onion to Taste: If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced red onion in water before adding it to the salad.
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Get Creative with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your Divorce Salad with fresh veggies, such as diced cucumbers and bell peppers, for extra crunch and color.
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Experiment with Herbs: Try out different herbs like dill or parsley for various flavor profiles, making your Divorce Salad unique every time!
Divorce Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of chickpeas should I use for my Divorce Salad?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are convenient and work perfectly for this recipe. Just remember to rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid for the best flavor.
How long can I store Divorce Salad in the fridge?
Your Divorce Salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Over time, the flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier, but enjoy it within that timeframe for the best quality.
Can I freeze Divorce Salad for later use?
Very! To freeze, I recommend portioning out your Divorce Salad without the feta cheese and dressing, as these ingredients don’t freeze well. Place the mixture in a freezer-safe container, and it’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight before adding your feta and dressing.
What if I want to adjust the flavors after making the salad?
If you find the flavor isn’t quite to your liking, you can easily brighten it up! Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash more vinegar to enhance the tanginess. For those who love herbs, tossing in some chopped parsley or dill can add a fresh pop and invigorate the salad further.
Are there any ingredient substitutions for Allergy considerations in Divorce Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to legumes, you could replace chickpeas and black beans with quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor. For dairy allergies, you might want to omit feta altogether or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Always feel free to customize to fit your dietary needs!
Is the red onion necessary for Divorce Salad?
Not at all! If you’re not a fan of the sharpness of raw red onion, you can soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes before using it. This mitigates the intensity. Alternatively, you can use green onions or omitted altogether for a milder profile!
Divorce Salad: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Meal Prep Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed chickpeas and black beans.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the bean mixture, and gently toss to coat.
- Fold in the thinly sliced red onion and crumbled feta cheese, along with parsley if desired.
- Cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.