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Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 7 reviews

A refreshing and vibrant Mediterranean Chickpea Salad combining crisp vegetables, herbs, and a tangy lemon-Dijon dressing for a quick and healthy meal or side dish, perfect for warm days or light lunches.

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes)
  • 1 teaspoon sumac (or lemon zest)
  • Kosher salt, about 1/2 teaspoon
  • Black pepper, about 1/2 teaspoon
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Salad

  • 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 large English cucumber, chopped
  • 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
  • 2 roasted red peppers, seeded and chopped (or 16-ounce jar roasted peppers in oil)
  • 1 small red onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 cup chopped parsley leaves
  • 1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
  • 1 avocado, pitted and roughly chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, Aleppo pepper, sumac, kosher salt, and black pepper. While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the dressing becomes glossy and well emulsified, creating a balanced blend of flavors.
  2. Combine the salad ingredients: Add the drained chickpeas, chopped cucumber, halved grape tomatoes, chopped roasted red peppers, finely chopped red onion or shallots, chopped parsley, and mint leaves directly into the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  3. Add the avocado: Incorporate the roughly chopped avocado into the salad and toss very gently once more to avoid mashing the avocado, maintaining its creamy texture and freshness.
  4. Season and serve: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use Aleppo pepper for authentic Mediterranean flavor, but red pepper flakes are a good substitute.
  • Sumac adds a subtle lemony tartness; lemon zest can be used if unavailable.
  • This salad is best served fresh to preserve the texture of the avocado.
  • For added protein, consider topping with feta cheese or grilled chicken, though this will alter the dish's dietary profile.
  • Can be prepared ahead but add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/mediterranean-chickpea-salad-recipe/