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Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by preparing the vegetables. Dice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half. If you’re using olives, slice them as well. Chop the fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
2. Assemble the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas with the diced vegetables and olives (if using). Toss them gently to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice for extra tang, or more olive oil for a smoother texture.
4. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together until evenly coated. If you’re using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad and give it a final gentle toss.
5. Chill and Serve:
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to meld. However, it’s also delicious served immediately. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- Add more veggies: Feel free to throw in any extra veggies you love, such as shredded carrots, corn, or even diced avocado for creaminess.
- Switch up the beans: While chickpeas are the star of this salad, you can also experiment with other beans like black beans, kidney beans, or white beans for a different texture and flavor.
- Add some crunch: For an added crunch, sprinkle some roasted nuts or seeds (such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds) on top right before serving.
- Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the salad for a spicy kick.
- Sweeten it up: For a touch of sweetness, add some diced mango, apples, or raisins to the mix.
Why You’ll Love Chickpea Salad
- Full of flavor and texture: The crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and hearty chickpeas come together to create a balanced, delicious salad that is both refreshing and satisfying.
- Meal prep-friendly: This salad holds up well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for meal prepping or packing for lunch throughout the week.
- Light and refreshing: This salad is light on the stomach but packed with nutrition, making it perfect for warm days or when you’re looking for something healthy yet filling.
Chickpea Salad is a nutritious and delicious way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a side to your main meal, this salad is versatile, easy to make, and full of flavor. Whip it up for a quick lunch, dinner, or a snack that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied!
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