Name: Chickpea Cranberry Salad: 5 Reasons to Love This Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

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Chickpea Cranberry Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed vegetarian salad that has become a staple in my kitchen. This delightful mix combines chickpeas, dried cranberries, crunchy celery, red onion, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. Not only is this salad quick to prepare, but it’s also a healthy choice that fits perfectly into meal prep routines. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, this Chickpea Cranberry Salad is here to brighten your day!

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Cranberry Salad

This Chickpea Cranberry Salad will quickly become one of your favorites for several reasons. First, it’s packed with protein from the chickpeas, making it a filling option for lunches. Second, the combination of sweet dried cranberries and crisp vegetables offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Third, this salad is incredibly versatile; it can easily be made vegan or gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Fourth, it’s a breeze to whip up, taking only about 15 minutes to prepare, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Fifth, it’s a great meal prep option, staying fresh in the refrigerator for days. Lastly, it’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather, making it a delightful addition to any gathering or picnic. Enjoy this protein-packed chickpea cranberry salad that is not only delicious but also nutritious!

Ingredients for Chickpea Cranberry Salad

Gather these items:

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup dried cranberries
2 stalks celery, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Chickpea Cranberry Salad Step-by-Step

Step 1: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly.
Step 2: Dice the celery and red onion into small pieces and finely chop the parsley.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
Step 4: Combine chickpeas, cranberries, celery, red onion, and parsley in a large bowl.
Step 5: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Let it chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Chickpea Cranberry Salad

Keep these in mind:

This salad is great for meal prep; make a large batch and store it in an airtight container.
Can be served as a main or side dish, making it versatile for any meal.
Easily customizable with vegan or gluten-free options; substitute maple syrup with agave if desired.
For an extra crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds.
For the freshest flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled.

Best Ways to Serve Chickpea Cranberry Salad

There are numerous ways to enjoy this delicious salad. You can serve it as a standalone dish for a light lunch, or you can add it to a wrap for an easy meal on the go. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a perfect side dish for dinner. You might also enjoy this salad as a topping on a bed of greens for a refreshing salad bowl. With so many options, it’s not just an easy chickpea salad with cranberries; it’s a versatile dish that can elevate any meal.

How to Store and Reheat Chickpea Cranberry Salad

This salad is ideal for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. To enjoy it later, there’s no need to reheat; it’s delicious cold or at room temperature. If you’ve made a large batch, it’s easy to portion out for quick lunches throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chickpea Cranberry Salad

What is chickpea cranberry salad?

This salad combines chickpeas with dried cranberries, vegetables, and a zesty dressing, creating a nutritious and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I make chickpea cranberry salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chickpea cranberry salad?

To avoid mushy chickpeas, ensure they are drained and rinsed well. Also, don’t skip the chilling step, as it enhances the flavors of the salad.

Variations of Chickpea Cranberry Salad You Can Try

There are many exciting variations you can create with this salad. Consider adding diced apples or pears for a sweet crunch. You can also incorporate different nuts for added texture, or swap out the parsley for cilantro for a fresh twist. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve it over quinoa or with avocado. The possibilities are endless with this healthy chickpea cranberry salad!

For more delicious recipes, check out Chickpea Avocado Salad or Cranberry Orange Pancakes. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit Last Recipes for inspiration.

Chickpea Cranberry Salad: 5 Reasons to Love This Recipe

Author: basmer
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Chickpea Cranberry Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed vegetarian salad made with chickpeas, dried cranberries, celery, red onion, and a lemon-Dijon dressing.

Instructions

Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly.
Dice the celery and red onion into small pieces and finely chop the parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
Combine chickpeas, cranberries, celery, red onion, and parsley in a large bowl.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Let it chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.