If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious salad recipe that’s easy to make, look no further than this chickpea tomato carrot salad.
Not only is it packed with nutritious ingredients, but it’s also vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 large carrot, peeled and shredded
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup of red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, shredded carrot, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped parsley.
- In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, honey (optional), salt, and pepper to form a dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad, and toss to coat the salad ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and marinate the ingredients.
- Enjoy your delicious and nutritious chickpea tomato carrot salad!
Benefits of Chickpea Tomato Carrot Salad
This salad packed with nutritious ingredients and comes with many benefits to your health!.
- Chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and folate, which help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion.
- Tomatoes are high in lycopene antioxidants, which protect your cells from damage and reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
- Carrots are a good source of vitamin A, potassium, and soluble fiber, which promote healthy eyesight, skin, hair, and digestion.
- The olive oil in this salad is a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
- The apple cider vinegar in the dressing is a natural digestive aid and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- The lemon juice adds a refreshing twist to the salad while also providing a good source of vitamin C.
Variations and Tips for Making Chickpea Tomato Carrot Salad
This salad is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and ingredients on hand. Here are a few tips and variations to try:.
- You can substitute or add other vegetables, such as cucumber, bell pepper, roasted sweet potato, or kale.
- You can add cooked quinoa, brown rice, or lentils for added protein and fiber.
- You can garnish the salad with chopped nuts, seeds, or dried cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
- You can double or triple the recipe to make a large batch of salad for meal prep or potluck parties. The salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For a spicier version of the salad, you can add chopped jalapeno pepper, red pepper flakes, or chili powder to the dressing.
- For a creamier version of the salad, you can add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini to the dressing for added creaminess and flavor.
Conclusion
Chickpea tomato carrot salad is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
With its vibrant colors, robust flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this salad is sure to become a staple in your meal prep routine.