Chickpea Salad Recipe
Chickpea salad can be quite versatile, making it a great companion for various dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or shrimp. The vibrant flavors of the salad can elevate a simple piece of grilled meat. If you’re having a barbecue, try serving it alongside homemade burgers or hot dogs. For a lighter meal, top it on a bed of greens for a refreshing twist.
Equipment
- Citrus juicer, mixing bowl
Ingredients
Salad
- 15.5 ounces canned chickpeas 1 can, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups ripe grape tomatoes sliced in half
- ½ cup freshly chopped parsley leaves
- ¾ cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese for a salty-tangy touch
- ¼ cup finely minced red onion
- 2 cups crisp cucumber diced
- Juice of ½ fresh lemon
Dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup to balance acidity
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ripe avocado optional, for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Start by getting all your ingredients prepped. Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Dice the cucumbers, chop the bell pepper and onion, and halve the grape tomatoes. It’ll feel like you’re prepping for a colorful feast!
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin. If you opt to include avocado, you can mix this in until creamy. This dressing is your secret weapon, adding zest to the dish.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, grape tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and feta cheese.
Step 4: Pour on the Dressing
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring every ingredient gets evenly coated. Don’t be shy; get in there with those tongs!
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Once mixed, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick toss to refresh the ingredients.
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies enhance the taste and crunchiness. Organic options can bring even better flavor.
Experiment with Herbs: Fresh basil, cilantro, or dill can provide exciting flavor twists.
Serve Chilled: Chilling the salad allows the flavors to deepen. It’s a picnic win!
Add Protein: For a heartier dish, toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein.
Make Ahead of Time: This salad stores well; prepare it a day before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 7gFat: 11.8gSaturated Fat: 2.1gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 420mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 13IUVitamin C: 46mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 9mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!