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Chickpea Apple Salad

Chickpea Apple Salad
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Chickpea Apple Salad is a vibrant, crisp, and nutritious dish combining creamy chickpeas with sweet, crunchy apples. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this easy-to-make salad supports digestion, boosts immunity, and offers a refreshing balance of flavors without any cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups apples, diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), skin on
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or vegan alternative (coconut or almond yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup toasted nuts or seeds (walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes
  • Alternative dressing: 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (vinaigrette)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse one can of chickpeas thoroughly, then pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for a firmer texture in the salad.
  2. Chop the Fruits and Vegetables: Dice the apples and celery into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion and fresh herbs. Leaving the apple skin on adds extra fiber and color.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the chickpeas, diced apples, celery, red onion, and herbs, ensuring an even distribution of each component.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to your liking.
  5. Mix and Chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and fold gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to blend the flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best balance of sweetness and crunch.
  • Rinse chickpeas well to reduce sodium and canned flavor while keeping them firm.
  • Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor melding and improve texture.
  • Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing and sogginess.
  • Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro add aromatic flavor and vibrant color.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.
  • Freeze not recommended as apples and celery lose their crispness.
  • Salad is best served cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chickpea salad, apple salad, healthy salad, gluten free salad, vegan salad, quick salad, fiber rich, probiotic salad

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/chickpea-apple-salad/