Drain and rinse 3 cans of chickpeas under cold running water for about 1 minute until the water runs clear. This removes excess sodium and starch. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Dice 2 large red bell peppers into half-inch pieces (about 5 minutes total prep time). Add to the bowl immediately so the fresh crispness is preserved.

Mince 4 garlic cloves using a sharp knife or garlic press (about 2 minutes). Add to the bowl right away.

Dice 1 small red onion into half-inch pieces (about 3 minutes). Add to the bowl.

Chop 1 cup of fresh parsley leaves by stacking them, rolling tightly, and slicing across. Add to the bowl.

Chop 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves the same way as the parsley. Add to the bowl.

Crumble 3/4 cup of reduced-fat feta cheese into bite-sized pieces using your fingers or a fork (about 2 minutes). Add to the bowl.

Juice 1 fresh lemon until you have about 2 to 3 tablespoons of juice (about 2 minutes). Pour over the ingredients in the bowl.

Pour 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil into the bowl.

Season with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper as a starting point. Checkpoint: You are ready to move on when you have added all wet and dry ingredients to the bowl.

Using a large spoon or salad spoon, stir all ingredients together for about 2 to 3 minutes, making sure the lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings coat every ingredient evenly. The salad should look cohesive with color distributed throughout.

Taste a small spoonful and adjust seasonings as needed—add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired (about 1 minute). Checkpoint: You are ready to serve when the flavor is balanced and all ingredients are combined.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for at least 2 to 3 hours, or up to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together and the better it tastes. If your refrigerator is very cold, the flavors may mute slightly—let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for optimal taste.

Before serving, stir once more to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom (about 1 minute). The salad should look fresh and vibrant with no separation.