Best Curried Chickpea Salad
Best Curried Chickpea Salad
When it comes to a refreshing and flavorful salad, the Best Curried Chickpea Salad stands out for its unique blend of spices and textures. This salad is not only a delicious dish but also a nutritious and satisfying meal option. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a potluck contribution, this recipe has you covered.
With a perfect balance of savory curry flavors, creamy chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a true crowd-pleaser. The aromatic blend of spices in the curry dressing elevates the humble chickpea to new heights, making this dish a standout favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
One of the best things about the Best Curried Chickpea Salad is its versatility. You can enjoy it on its own as a satisfying meal, serve it as a side dish, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. The salad is not only delicious when freshly made but also tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking to add more plant-based dishes to your menu, this Best Curried Chickpea Salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish and learn how to make it at home.
Recipe Quick Facts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine Type: Indian-inspired
Course: Salad
Dietary Labels: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– The rich and aromatic curry flavors add a unique twist to a classic chickpea salad.
– Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
– Suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
– Makes a great standalone meal or a flavorful side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
– 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Curry Dressing:
– 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
Pro Tip: For added creaminess, you can also mash some of the chickpeas with a fork before mixing them with the other ingredients.
Equipment Needed
– Large mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Serving bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, curry powder, and cumin to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the Best Curried Chickpea Salad chilled as a standalone dish or as a side with your favorite main course.
Pro Tip: For a burst of freshness, squeeze extra lemon juice over the salad right before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
– To enhance the curry flavor, you can add a pinch of garam masala to the dressing.
– Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.
– For a bit of sweetness, consider adding a spoonful of mango chutney to the salad.
Substitutions & Variations
– For a vegan version, swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt or cashew cream.
– Add a handful of raisins or diced apples for a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
– For a spicier kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or finely chopped green chilies over the salad.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature: It is best to consume the salad fresh or store it in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time but toss them together just before serving for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair this Best Curried Chickpea Salad with warm naan bread or fluffy basmati rice for a complete meal.
– Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for added crunch.
– Serve alongside a refreshing mint lassi or a fruity mango lassi for a flavorful Indian-inspired feast.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 220 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Sodium: 380mg
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them just before serving.
2. Can I make this salad spicy?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more curry powder or some chopped fresh chilies for a spicier version.
3. Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?
Yes, canned chickpeas work well in this salad. Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before using.
4. How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?
The salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
5. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, avocado, or shredded carrots.
6. Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Yes, this salad is perfect for picnics as it can be made ahead, travels well, and is delicious served cold.
Recipe Notes
The Best Curried Chickpea Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your preference and get creative with additional mix-ins like toasted nuts or dried fruits. This salad is not only a healthy and nutritious option but also a delicious way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine.
Best Curried Chickpea Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad featuring chickpeas, red bell pepper, cucumber, and cilantro tossed in a savory curry dressing made with Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, curry powder, and cumin.
Ingredients
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2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
-
1 red bell pepper, diced
-
1 small red onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup cucumber, diced
-
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon curry powder
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1/2 teaspoon cumin
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, red bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, curry powder, and cumin to make the dressing.
-
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated.
-
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve the Best Curried Chickpea Salad chilled as a standalone dish or as a side with your favorite main course.
