Q: Why use English cucumber instead of regular garden cucumber?

English cucumbers are preferred because they have a thinner skin and far fewer seeds , meaning they contain less water. This keeps your salad crisper and prevents the dressing from becoming diluted. If you do use regular garden cucumber, I recommend using a spoon to removing the center seeds so your salad doesn't become watery and mushy.

Q: Can I use a different vinegar than red wine vinegar?

If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar . For extra complexity, use a splash of fresh lemon juice along with your vinegar.

Q: <strong>Do I need to add salt?</strong>

Taste before you salt! Both the feta cheese and the Kalamata olives are very salty. Season the dressing with just a pinch of salt, then mix the salad, and only add more salt after you’ve tasted it with all the components included.

Question 1

How long does this salad last?

Accepted Answer

This salad keeps very well! You can store the base salad (dressed chickpeas and veggies) in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For the best texture, always add the feta and pine nuts right before serving.

Question 2

Can I use different beans?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. While chickpeas provide the best texture, you can use cannellini beans or white kidney beans (Great Northern) as excellent substitutes. Ensure you rinse and dry them well.

Question 3

Why use English cucumber instead of regular garden cucumber?

Accepted Answer

English cucumbers are preferred because they have a thinner skin and far fewer seeds, meaning they contain less water. This keeps your salad crisper and prevents the dressing from becoming diluted.

If you do use regular garden cucumber, I recommend using a spoon to removing the center seeds so your salad doesn't become watery and mushy.

Question 4

Can I use a different vinegar than red wine vinegar?

Accepted Answer

If you don't have red wine vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. For extra complexity, use a splash of fresh lemon juice along with your vinegar.

Question 5

Do I need to add salt?

Accepted Answer

Taste before you salt! Both the feta cheese and the Kalamata olives are very salty. Season the dressing with just a pinch of salt, then mix the salad, and only add more salt after you’ve tasted it with all the components included.

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