Chopped Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and nourishing dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This salad combines the hearty texture of chickpeas with a mix of fresh vegetables and herbs, all tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. It’s an excellent choice for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, offering a satisfying blend of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The chickpeas provide a satisfying base, while cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and bell peppers add crunch and color. A sprinkle of feta cheese and a handful of fresh parsley elevate this dish, making it a refreshing option for any day of the week.
Recipe: Chopped Chickpea Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad Components:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Combine and Toss:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Add Cheese and Herbs:
- Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley to the salad. Gently toss to distribute evenly.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled, perfect as a standalone meal or as a side to grilled meats or seafood.
This Chopped Chickpea Salad is not only refreshing and healthful but also colorful and bursting with flavors that blend perfectly together. It’s an ideal meal prep option for busy weeks, as it keeps well in the refrigerator and the flavors enhance over time.
