chickpea salad

Here’s a simple recipe for a delicious chickpea salad:

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Feta cheese, crumbled
• Olives, sliced
• Avocado, diced
• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, chopped red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. If using any optional additions like cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, or avocado, gently fold them into the salad.
6. Refrigerate the chickpea salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own.

Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious chickpea salad! Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.