Summer Strawberry Chickpea Salad with Mozzarella

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Strawberry salad is one of the best ways to celebrate summer's sweetest fruit. Juicy strawberries add a burst of freshness and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like cheese, herbs, and protein. This high-protein strawberry chickpea salad takes the idea a step further, combining berries, legumes, and fresh mozzarella balls into a vibrant and satisfying dish that works great as a refreshing dinner, quick lunch, or seasonal side dish.

This salad comes together in just five minutes with minimal prep work. It's tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette that ties the flavors together with a tangy-sweet finish. Whether you're heading to a picnic, making a quick weeknight dinner, or just craving something fresh, this strawberry chickpea salad brings together summer's best flavors in one colorful bowl.

Overhead image of a Summer Strawberry Salad with Chickpeas, Mozzarella, and Balsamic Dressing on a white plate.

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Ingredients
Substitutions
Making Ahead and Storage
Nutrition Highlights
FAQ
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Summer Strawberry Chickpea Salad with Mozzarella

What makes this salad unique is the balance of flavors and textures. Sweet strawberries, creamy mozzarella, hearty chickpeas, and fragrant basil come together in a way that's fresh yet filling. The balsamic dressing adds brightness and helps the flavors pop.

It's also versatile. You can serve it as a make-ahead lunch for work or scale it up for a summer potluck. Add extra protein with grilled tofu or chicken, or mix in a handful of arugula or spinach for extra greens.

Pair this salad with grilled tofu and veggie skewers, veggie pesto pasta, or a crispy tofu wrap. For even more vegetarian meal ideas, check out my roundups of Filling and Easy Vegetarian Salads for Lunch and Dinner, High-Protein Vegetarian Recipes, and 50 Easy Vegetarian Meal Prep Ideas.

You can also download my free PDF guide with 100 plant-forward meal and snack ideas here.

Chickpeas, strawberries, mozzarella, and basil sectioned off on a white plate.

Ingredients

This summer salad comes together with just a few seasonal staples. Fresh strawberries bring juicy sweetness, chickpeas add plant-based protein and heartiness, and mozzarella provides creamy richness. Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note, while a quick balsamic vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, and black pepper ties everything together.

Sliced strawberries, mozzarella, chickpeas, and basil on a white plate.

Substitutions

Mozzarella: Use goat cheese, feta, or a dairy-free mozzarella alternative for a vegan option.
Chickpeas: Swap with white beans, such as cannellini beans.
Strawberries: Try blueberries, cherries, or peaches for a different seasonal spin.
Fresh basil: Substitute with fresh mint, parsley, or arugula for a different herbal flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar works if you don't have balsamic.

Summer Strawberry Salad with chickpeas, basil, mozzarella, and balsamic dressing on a white plate.

Making Ahead and Storage

This strawberry salad can be made ahead for convenience. Store the salad in an airtight container for up to five days. For the freshest texture and flavor, store the salad and dressing in separate containers and toss right before serving.

Summer Strawberry Salad with Chickpeas and Mozzarella in a glass meal prep container.

Nutrition Highlights

This vegetarian salad is high in protein, with 19 grams per entree serving.
Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and they also contain fiber.
Chickpeas are a member of the pulse family, which is rich in fiber and plant-based protein.

Overhead image of a strawberry mozzarella salad with a fork on a white plate.

FAQ

What goes into a strawberry salad?

Strawberry salads often combine fresh strawberries with leafy greens or herbs, cheese, nuts, or grains. This recipe pairs strawberries with chickpeas, mozzarella, and basil for a unique twist.

Are strawberries "healthy" in salads?

Yes! Strawberries add vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutrient-rich addition to salads while also providing natural sweetness.

What do you put in a summer salad?

Summer salads often feature crisp vegetables, fresh fruit, herbs, and vibrant dressings. Ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, berries, corn, and fresh herbs are all great options.

What is the best time of year for a strawberry salad?

Strawberry salad is best enjoyed in late spring through early summer when strawberries are in peak season and at their sweetest.

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