When preparing quinoa chickpea salad, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience and make the meal even more satisfying.
Grilled chicken skewers are an excellent choice, as their juicy, seasoned meat complements the fresh, vibrant flavors of the salad while adding protein and heartiness to the dish.
For a comforting touch, serve with crisp, buttery garlic bread, which provides a satisfying crunch and its garlic notes enhance the zesty dressing of the salad—plus, it's perfect for scooping up the salad's remaining bits.
To add a refreshing contrast, chilled gazpacho is a great option. This cold, tomato-based soup with peppers and herbs offers a cooling effect and ties in beautifully with the elements of the salad, cleansing your palate between bites. These pairings ensure a well-rounded and delicious meal, balancing flavors and textures perfectly.
Quinoa chickpea salad is a nutritious dish made primarily with cooked quinoa, chickpeas, and a variety of colorful vegetables. The base is often enhanced with spices, herbs, and a dressing that combines oil, vinegar, or citrus juice.
This combination provides a punch of flavor while offering a range of textures. Consider it your go-to summer meal that’s not only healthy but incredibly satisfying.
Let me break down why this quinoa chickpea salad reigns supreme in my kitchen.
Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need for this salad:
For the dressing:
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to put this salad together.
Start by rinsing your uncooked quinoa under cold water. This removes any bitterness. Then, in a medium-sized pot, add 1 cup of quinoa along with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. Once done, fluff it with a fork and let it cool.
While the quinoa cooks, you can chop your vegetables. Dice the red onion, tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper. Shred the carrots and chop the fresh cilantro or parsley.
Open the can of chickpeas, drain them, and give them a good rinse under cold water. This enhances flavor and removes excess sodium.
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Whisk it all together.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, chickpeas, and dressing. Toss everything gently, ensuring even coverage of flavors.
Finally, sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top for that burst of sweetness and color.
Here are some handy tips for making this salad even better:
Got leftovers? Store your quinoa chickpea salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last about 3-4 days. Just give it a toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
Quinoa chickpea salad has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for summer. With stunning colors, delightful flavors, and a boatload of nutrients, it checks all the boxes. The best part?
It’s easy to prepare, and you have the flexibility to make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for something healthy during the week, this salad is ready to step up. Gather your ingredients, give it a whirl, and enjoy the deliciousness! You won't regret making this salad a staple in your kitchen.
So, what’s stopping you? Dive into this recipe and relish every single bite!
As summer rolls in, my kitchen transforms into a hub of fresh ingredients and vibrant colors. It’s that time of year when I crave light yet filling meals. Enter the quinoa chickpea salad. If you’ve never had quinoa before, let me tell you, it’s a game changer.
Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it also works splendidly in salads. Picture this: a medley of crisp vegetables, the satisfying bite of chickpeas, all tied together with a zesty dressing. Yum! Let’s make cooking a breeze, shall we?
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
I'm Natasha Dunford, a registered dietitian from Rochelle Park, NJ, and the creator of Simple Easy Meals. My passion is helping busy individuals create delicious, nutritious meals that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Through my blog, I aim to simplify meal prep and inspire confidence in the kitchen!