Description

This Colorful Summer Chickpea Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy bell peppers, and crisp cucumbers, it’s tossed in a zesty lemon and herb dressing. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this salad is light, healthy, and ideal for a quick lunch or a summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

2 (19-oz) cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained
2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 orange bell pepper, seeded and diced
1/2 English cucumber, halved and sliced thin
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 garlic cloves, minced

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Instructions

Prepare Vegetables and Chickpeas: In a large bowl, combine the rinsed and drained chickpeas with the halved cherry or grape tomatoes, diced yellow and orange bell peppers, and thinly sliced cucumber. Set this mixture aside to assemble the salad base.
Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, chopped basil, chopped parsley, kosher salt, and minced garlic until the dressing is well combined and emulsified, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
Toss the Salad: Pour the freshly made dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all ingredients with the flavorful dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate the salad for at least two hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to chill, enhancing its refreshing quality.
Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the salad. Give it a gentle toss to incorporate the cheese, then serve the salad cold for the best taste and texture experience.

Notes

For added crunch, you can include toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving.
This salad can be prepared a day ahead, but add the Parmesan cheese only before serving to keep it fresh.
Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs will not provide the same vibrant taste.
Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste, depending on your preference and the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese.
Serve with crusty bread or as a side to grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.