why make this recipe
Chickpea Cucumber Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that’s easy to make. It’s packed with protein from chickpeas and vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at dinner. This salad is flavorful, colorful, and can be whipped up in just a few minutes, which is ideal for busy days.
how to make Chickpea Cucumber Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups cucumbers (diced, partially peeled for texture)
- 1 cup tomatoes (seeded and diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 15 oz can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by dicing the cucumbers, tomatoes, and finely chopping the red onion.
Step 2: Rinse the Chickpeas
Take the canned chickpeas and rinse them under cool water. Drain them well.
Step 3: Toss It All Together
In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and chickpeas. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Add the parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything gently until well mixed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled.
how to serve Chickpea Cucumber Salad
Chickpea Cucumber Salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold. You can serve it as a side dish, or enjoy it as a light lunch on its own. For added flavor, consider serving it with pita bread or alongside grilled meats.
how to store Chickpea Cucumber Salad
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. If the salad seems a bit watery after sitting, just give it a quick stir before serving again.
tips to make Chickpea Cucumber Salad
- For extra crunch, choose English cucumbers or add some bell peppers.
- You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like more tang, add extra lemon juice.
- Consider letting it sit in the fridge a bit longer for even better flavor.
variation
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or radishes for more variety. You can also mix in some feta cheese for a creamy touch or add avocado for healthy fats.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it the day before. Just keep it refrigerated and stir it before serving.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes, Chickpea Cucumber Salad is completely vegan and is a great option for plant-based diets.
Q: What can I use instead of chickpeas?
A: If you don’t have chickpeas, you can use black beans or kidney beans as a substitute.
