Spinach and Chickpea Salad

Spinach and chickpea salad is a fresh, light, and nutrient-packed dish that makes for a perfect side or a satisfying main meal. The earthy flavor of spinach pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of chickpeas, creating a balanced combination of flavors and textures. This salad is not only delicious but also highly versatile, offering plenty of room for customization with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a nutrient-dense side, this salad is sure to meet your needs.

To start, wash and dry fresh spinach leaves. Baby spinach works best, as its tender leaves add a nice softness to the salad. Place the spinach in a large salad bowl as the base of your dish.

Next, open a can of chickpeas, drain, and rinse them well under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a filling addition to the salad. Once rinsed, add them to the bowl with the spinach.

For extra flavor, consider adding diced red onion or finely chopped shallots. Their mild, sweet flavor contrasts nicely with the spinach and chickpeas, adding a bit of crunch and depth. You can also toss in some sliced cucumber for additional freshness, or even roasted bell peppers if you prefer a smoky twist.

For a bit of richness, add crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese. The creamy cheese complements the earthiness of the spinach and chickpeas, bringing a tangy touch that ties everything together. If you’re vegan, you can skip the cheese or substitute it with avocado slices for a creamy alternative.

To add a touch of sweetness and extra texture, toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts. Their crunch and subtle flavor make a lovely contrast to the other ingredients. Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds would also provide a pop of sweetness, making the salad even more vibrant.

For the dressing, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a drizzle of honey. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika for added warmth and depth. The tangy dressing balances the rich flavors of the salad ingredients, making each bite more flavorful.

Once the dressing is ready, pour it over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Spinach and chickpea salad is not only a healthy choice but also a flavorful one that brings the vibrant tastes of fresh vegetables, protein-packed legumes, and a zesty dressing. This salad is easy to prepare, making it a great option for meal prep or as a light yet satisfying addition to any meal.

Spinach and Chickpea Salad

3.62 from 44 votes

A refreshing and healthy salad with spinach, chickpeas, and a simple dressing.

Servings 1 people

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh spinach washed and dried
• 1 cup chickpeas cooked or canned, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup red onion sliced
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
• to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, chickpeas, sliced red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 9gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Calories: 250kcal

Meal Type: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: healthy eating, salad, vegetarian

Diet: Vegetarian

Time: <30 Min

Level: Easy

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