Contents
Introduction
This refreshing chickpea salad from Love and Lemons is a vibrant and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Bursting with fresh flavors and colorful ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for picnics, lunch preparations, or as a side dish for dinner. The combination of herbs, vegetables, and a zesty dressing makes this salad both satisfying and invigorating.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, grated
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
3 cups cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups mixed yellow and red grape tomatoes, halved
½ English cucumber, diced
½ cup pickled red onions
½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
½ cup chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup chopped fresh dill
¼ cup chopped fresh mint, plus whole mint leaves for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes
Total Time
15 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, Dijon mustard, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper until well combined.
Combine Salad Ingredients
Add the cooked chickpeas, halved grape tomatoes, diced cucumber, pickled red onions, and halved kalamata olives to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Add Fresh Herbs
Incorporate the chopped parsley, dill, and mint into the salad. Toss again to distribute the herbs throughout.
Season and Serve
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with whole mint leaves before serving.
Notes
Preparation Time
Consider preparing the ingredients in advance to save time when assembling the salad.
Chickpeas
You can use canned chickpeas for convenience or cook your own from dried chickpeas for better flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is great for picnics, packed lunches, or as a refreshing side dish for dinner.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
Herb Variations
Feel free to substitute or add other fresh herbs based on your preference, such as basil or cilantro.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking is an essential technique for emulsifying the dressing ingredients together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Ensure you whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Tossing
Tossing the salad ingredients gently helps to evenly distribute the dressing and ensures that each component is coated without bruising the vegetables.
Incorporating Fresh Herbs
When adding fresh herbs, fold them into the salad gently rather than stirring vigorously to preserve their delicate texture and vibrant flavor.
Tasting and Adjusting Seasonings
Always taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon can enhance the overall flavor.
FAQ
Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?
Yes, canned chickpeas are a convenient option. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before using.
How long can I store the chickpea salad?
The chickpea salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best flavor, it’s recommended to consume it within 1-2 days.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, red onion, or avocados for added texture and flavor.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
What can I substitute for the kalamata olives?
If you don’t have kalamata olives, you can substitute with green olives or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Conclusion
This Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. It serves as a perfect side or a light main course that is both satisfying and refreshing. With its zesty dressing and abundance of fresh ingredients, this salad is sure to please any crowd and is ideal for various occasions, from picnics to potlucks.
Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl
Combine cooked quinoa with chickpeas, diced bell peppers, and a lemon-tahini dressing for a hearty and nutritious meal option.
Italian Chickpea Salad
Add diced mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil to the original recipe for an Italian twist that pairs well with crusty bread.
Spicy Chickpea and Avocado Salad
Incorporate diced avocado and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a creamy, spicy variation that will excite your taste buds.
Mediterranean Chickpea Wraps
Use the chickpea salad as a filling for whole wheat tortillas or pita bread, adding extra greens for a wholesome wrap that’s perfect for on-the-go lunches.
Chickpea and Feta Salad
Mix in crumbled feta cheese and a splash of red wine vinegar for a tangy flavor boost that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.
