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Easy Chickpea Salad

By deiv3 on July 9, 2024

Easy Chickpea Salad

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups diced cucumbers (partially peeled)
1 cup diced (seeded) tomato
1/4 cup diced red onion
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
15-ounce can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)

Instructions

Preparation of Ingredients: Begin by preparing all the fresh ingredients. Partially peel the cucumbers to retain some of the skin for added texture and nutrients. Dice the cucumbers into small, uniform pieces. Seed and dice the tomatoes to prevent excess moisture in the salad. Finely dice the red onion for a subtle yet sharp flavor.
Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. These vegetables form the base of the salad and provide a refreshing crunch.
Add Chickpeas: Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly. This step is crucial to remove any excess sodium and to ensure the chickpeas are clean. Add the chickpeas to the vegetable mixture. Chickpeas are the star protein of this salad, adding heartiness and nutritional value.
Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, minced fresh parsley, and extra virgin olive oil. This simple yet flavorful dressing enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables and chickpeas.
Seasoning: Season the salad with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. The salt enhances the flavors, while the pepper adds a mild heat.
Toss and Combine: Pour the dressing over the vegetable and chickpea mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step ensures that every bite is flavorful.
Chill the Salad: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions: Serve the Mediterranean Chickpea Salad chilled, either as a standalone dish or as a side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a larger Mediterranean spread.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep well for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Doubling the Recipe: To feed a larger crowd, simply double or triple the recipe. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings.