Introduction
This vibrant and nutritious chickpea salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with flavors and textures. Combining marinated chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it serves as a perfect main or side dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a casual lunch, or planning meals for the week, this salad is sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cups
– 800g/14oz (2 cans) chickpeas, well drained
DRESSING / MARINADE:
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 1 garlic clove, minced using garlic press
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp dijon mustard (or other non-spicy smooth mustard)
– 3/4 tsp EACH salt and pepper
QUICK PICKLED ONION (PICKLING OPTIONAL):
– 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp white sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
SALAD:
– 250g/8oz cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or 2 normal tomatoes)
– 3 cups (packed) spinach, sliced 1/2 cm / 1/5″ thick
– 100g/3oz feta
– 3/4 cup chargrilled peppers, drained and sliced 1cm / 1/3″ thick (optional)
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
1 1/2 minutes (for chickpeas)
Total Time
31 1/2 minutes
Yield
Serves 8 as a side dish
This flavorful chickpea salad is not only simple to make, but it also keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or taking to work. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures while nourishing your body!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Shake Dressing
In a small jar, combine red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid and shake well until the dressing is emulsified.
Marinated Chickpeas
Place the well-drained chickpeas in a microwaveable bowl. Pour half of the dressing over the chickpeas and toss to coat. Microwave the chickpeas for 1 ½ minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until warmed through. Set the chickpeas aside to marinate for 20 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the dressing.
Quick Pickled Onion
In a bowl, mix together the sliced red onion, red wine vinegar, white sugar, and salt. Set the bowl aside for 30 minutes to let the onion wilt. If you prefer a quicker method, microwave the onion mixture for 2 minutes until hot, then cool for 10 minutes before using. Drain the mixture before adding to the salad.
Assemble Salad
In a large serving bowl, add the sliced spinach. Incorporate the marinated chickpeas along with any residual dressing from the bowl. Then add the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, the drained pickled onion, and sliced chargrilled peppers if using. Pour the remaining dressing over the top and toss everything together until well mixed. Transfer the salad to a serving plate and crumble the feta cheese on top before serving.
Notes
Stovetop Chickpeas
If using dried chickpeas, soak 1 cup (200g) of chickpeas overnight in plenty of water. Pick out any debris that floats to the surface. Place the soaked chickpeas in a saucepan, covering them with 10cm (4 inches) of water. Simmer on medium heat for 40 to 50 minutes, checking for desired tenderness starting at 30 minutes. Drain before proceeding with the recipe.
Alternatives for Vinegar
You can substitute red wine vinegar with lemon juice, white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, sherry, or champagne vinegar. If using regular white vinegar, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to balance the acidity.
Pickling Choice
Pickling the onion is optional but recommended for added flavor and color. If preferred, you can simply use fresh red onion or chopped green onion.
Spinach Options
Feel free to use other leafy greens like baby spinach, silverbeet, or kale. If using cabbage, toss it with a bit of dressing and let it wilt for 20 minutes prior to mixing into the salad.
Chargrilled Peppers
While optional, chargrilled peppers enhance the salad’s flavor. However, the salad is delicious even without them.
Storage Recommendation
This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and is particularly good as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep or buffets. The flavors meld beautifully over time.
Cook Techniques
Marinating Chickpeas
Warm the chickpeas in a microwaveable bowl with half of the dressing. Microwave for 1.5 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Allow them to sit for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Quick Pickling Onion
Combine finely sliced red onion, red wine vinegar, white sugar, and salt in a bowl. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes until the onion wilts. Alternatively, microwave for 2 minutes, then let it cool for 10 minutes if you need it ready quickly.
Assembling the Salad
In a large bowl, layer the sliced spinach, marinated chickpeas (including residual dressing), halved tomatoes, pickled onions, and chargrilled peppers if using. Drizzle with remaining dressing and toss to combine. Transfer to serving plate and crumble feta over the top.
FAQ
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak 1 cup overnight, then cook on the stove for 40-50 minutes or in a pressure cooker for 45 minutes without soaking.
What can I substitute for red wine vinegar?
You can substitute it with lemon juice, white wine vinegar, cider vinegar, sherry vinegar, or champagne vinegar. If using normal white vinegar, add 1 tablespoon of extra olive oil.
Is pickling the onion necessary?
No, pickling is optional. You can use unpickled onions or finely sliced green onions if you prefer.
What leafy greens can be used instead of spinach?
You can use any similar leafy greens, such as baby spinach, silverbeet, kale, or even cabbage. If using cabbage, toss it with a bit of dressing and let it wilt for 20 minutes before using.
How long can I store the salad?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It actually improves in flavor as the spinach wilts a bit.
Conclusion
This chickpea salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish. The marinated chickpeas absorb delicious dressing flavors, while the freshness of the vegetables adds vibrancy. With the option to quick-pickle onions and the inclusion of feta, this salad not only pleases the palate but also looks visually appealing. Perfect for meal prep or serving at gatherings, it promises to tantalize your taste buds while keeping you nourished.
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