The sun-kissed days of summer are finally here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing, protein-packed chickpea salad? These 18 creamy concoctions combine the humble legume with a medley of flavors and textures, guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. From classic Mediterranean twists to spicy Southwestern flair, each recipe is a masterclass in balancing bold ingredients with silky, dreamy dressings.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting the most mouthwatering chickpea salad recipes perfect for sizzling summer days. Whether you’re looking for a light and zesty side dish or a satisfying main course, there’s something for everyone in our collection of creamy chickpea salads.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing
A refreshing and healthy salad that combines the creamy richness of lemon tahini dressing with the earthy flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a colorful Mediterranean medley.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp lemon tahini dressing (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle the lemon tahini dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Lemon Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Spicy Avocado Chickpea Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas and a kick of heat from diced jalapeño. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine avocado, chickpeas, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Curry Chickpea Salad with Raisins
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of chickpeas with the warm spices of curry powder and a hint of sweetness from raisins. A perfect blend for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/4 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together curry powder, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and stir until well coated with the curry mixture.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro, if using.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, stir in raisins.
Cooking Time: None!
Greek Chickpea Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, featuring creamy feta cheese, tangy olives, and crunchy chickpeas. A simple and flavorful side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, olives, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve: Chilled or at room temperature.
Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Salad
Roasted Red Pepper and Chickpea Salad: A flavorful and healthy salad that combines sweet roasted red peppers with creamy chickpeas, tangy feta cheese, and a hint of cumin. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
• 2 large red bell peppers
• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, roasted red pepper, feta cheese, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss to combine and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Chickpea Caesar Salad with Crispy Croutons
Elevate your classic Caesar salad by adding protein-rich chickpeas and crunchy croutons to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crispy croutons (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Crispy Crouton Recipe:
– 1/2 loaf Italian bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
4. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, lettuce, Caesar dressing, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Top with croutons and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southwest Chickpea Salad with Lime Cilantro Dressing
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the bold flavors of the Southwest.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, bell peppers, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is a quick and easy assembly of ingredients.
Chickpea Tuna Salad with Dill and Pickles
This recipe combines the creaminess of chickpeas, the savory flavor of tuna, and the tanginess of pickles to create a unique and delicious salad perfect for lunch or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 can tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup diced fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons chopped pickles
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, tuna, dill, and pickles.
2. Mix in mayonnaise until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea Salad with Apricots and Almonds
Experience the vibrant flavors of Morocco with this refreshing salad, combining chickpeas, sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and a hint of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced fresh apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted almonds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, apricots, almonds, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and cumin.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chickpea Waldorf Salad with Apples and Walnuts
A refreshing twist on the classic Waldorf salad, this recipe combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the crunch of apples and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 large apple, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tsp honey for sweetness
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, mixed greens, apple, and walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add honey for a touch of sweetness.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + serving time
Buffalo Chickpea Salad with Ranch Dressing
This recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy richness of ranch dressing, all wrapped up in a satisfying chickpea salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until the chickpeas are well coated.
2. Stir in mayonnaise and cilantro.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Chickpea and Quinoa Salad with Mango Dressing
Chickpea and Quinoa Salad with Mango Dressing Recipe
Summary: This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the creamy texture of chickpeas, topped with a sweet and tangy mango dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree mango, lime juice, and olive oil until smooth.
3. Pour the mango dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (quinoa cooking time not included)
Chickpea Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy’s famous caprese salad with the creamy texture of chickpeas. The addition of balsamic glaze takes it to the next level, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Spoon balsamic glaze over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing
This light and revitalizing salad is perfect for hot summer days, combining the creamy texture of chickpeas with the cooling crunch of cucumber and a hint of freshness from mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber slices, and mint leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
BBQ Chickpea Salad with Corn and Black Beans
A deliciously unique salad that combines the flavors of BBQ, corn, black beans, and chickpeas, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, corn kernels, and black beans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chickpea and Roasted Beet Salad with Goat Cheese
This vibrant salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the earthy flavor of chickpeas, all tied together with a tangy goat cheese. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Add roasted beet wedges to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Top with goat cheese crumbles and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Chickpea and Kale Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing
A refreshing and healthy salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas and chopped kale.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea-kale mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using feta cheese, crumble it on top of the salad.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chickpea and Sweet Potato Salad with Tahini Drizzle
This salad is a vibrant and nutritious combination of roasted sweet potato, chickpeas, and crunchy greens, topped with a creamy tahini drizzle. Perfect as a healthy lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork several times and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, mixed greens, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth.
4. Slice roasted sweet potatoes into wedges and add to the salad. Drizzle with tahini sauce.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 18 creamy chickpea salad recipes! From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to spicy and tangy creations, there’s something for everyone. Try Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing, Spicy Avocado Chickpea Salad, or Creamy Curry Chickpea Salad with Raisins, just to name a few. With flavors ranging from lemony to spicy, these salads are perfect for hot summer days and nights.
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