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Cranberry Chickpea Salad

Cranberry Chickpea Salad
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Cranberry Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and wholesome dish that combines creamy chickpeas, tart dried cranberries, fresh herbs, and a zesty lemon dressing to deliver a protein-packed, antioxidant-rich, and flavorful salad. Perfect as a quick, no-cook meal or snack, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and easily customizable for various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Core Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 tablespoons toasted nuts or seeds (e.g., walnuts, sunflower seeds)
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canned flavor. Pat them dry with a clean towel to avoid watering down the salad.
  2. Chop Fresh Ingredients: Finely dice the red onion and chop the parsley leaves, ensuring the fresh herbs are vibrant and evenly distributed in the salad.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chickpeas, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, and red onion. Toss gently to combine.
  4. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified and fragrant.
  5. Dress and Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad, then toss thoroughly to coat each ingredient evenly, ensuring a balanced flavor in every bite.
  6. Optional Add-Ins: If using, sprinkle toasted nuts, seeds, or crumbled cheese on top right before serving to maintain crunch and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor instead of bottled lemon juice.
  • Adjust the dressing ingredients gradually to suit your taste preferences.
  • Rinse chickpeas well to reduce excess salt and canned flavor.
  • Allow the salad to rest for 15-20 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
  • Choose good quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the salad’s richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chickpea salad, cranberry salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad, healthy salad, no-cook recipe, plant-based protein, easy salad

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