Italian Chickpea Salad

 Italian Chickpea Salad

An Italian Chickpea Salad is a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dish, perfect for a light meal or a side. It combines the heartiness of chickpeas with vibrant vegetables and a tangy Italian dressing. Here's a simple recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup mozzarella pearls (optional)

For the Italian Dressing:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fresh basil, and parsley. If using, add the mozzarella pearls.

2. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Toss the Salad:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

4. Serve:

Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

This Italian Chickpea Salad is a fresh and satisfying dish, full of Mediterranean flavors that make for a perfect side dish, picnic option, or light meal!