Easy Chickpea Salad
Ingredients
- 2 15- oz. cans chickpeas drained
- ½ cup soybeans edamame
- ½ cup green pepper diced
- ½ cup red pepper diced
- ¼ cup carrots chopped
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1½ tsp. apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. oregano
- ¼ tsp. cumin
- ¼ cup chopped Italian parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by washing and dicing the cucumber, bell pepper, and avocado. Finely chop the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the fresh parsley and cilantro. Place all these ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Add the Chickpeas
Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. This helps remove excess sodium and ensures the beans are clean. Add the chickpeas to the bowl with the chopped vegetables.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a simple, tangy dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Gently toss the salad to ensure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the avocado.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
If desired, add crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, or a handful of sunflower seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Nutrition
Nutritional Benefits of Chickpeas
- High in Protein: Ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
- Rich in Fiber: Promotes digestive health.
- Low Glycemic Index: Helps in managing blood sugar levels.
- Contains Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Such as folate, iron, and phosphorus.