Looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes? Look no further than this colorful Bell Pepper and Chickpea Salad! Bursting with fresh flavors and packed with protein, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a light snack, this salad will become your go-to recipe for any occasion. Dive into the recipe below and discover how to whip up this deliciously healthy meal that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Salad
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Drain and rinse the can of chickpeas under cold water to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid. Set aside to allow them to drain well.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly under running water. Cut each bell pepper in half, remove the seeds and the white pith, then dice them into bite-sized pieces. You can use any color of bell pepper according to your preference for flavor and presentation.
- Peel and finely chop the red onion. If you find the taste of raw onion too strong, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for a few minutes before draining to mellow the flavor.
- Rinse the parsley under cold water, shake off excess water, and chop it finely. Make sure to remove any thick stems, as they can be tough.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced bell peppers, chopped red onion, and parsley. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. This will serve as your dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
- Pour the dressing over the chickpea and bell pepper mixture. Gently toss everything together until the salad is well coated with the dressing.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This can be done at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a chilled salad.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if necessary. Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnishing with additional parsley if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the chickpeas and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or even avocado for added creaminess. The more colorful, the better!
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of feta cheese can also elevate this salad to the next level.
- Chill for Best Taste: Allow the salad to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Perfect Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a filling for wraps and pita bread. Serve it alongside your favorite protein for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg