Vibrant Chickpea and Black Bean Salad with Zesty Lime Dressing
Colorful Chickpea and Black Bean Salad: A Vibrant Dish for Any Occasion
This Colorful Chickpea and Black Bean Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a delightful chickpea compote that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. Perfect for informal gatherings or parties, this dish is not only visually appealing but also easy to make, allowing you to bring something delicious to the table without spending hours in the kitchen. With its refreshing ingredients and vibrant colors, it serves as a great appetizer or side dish, especially when paired with toasted pita triangles brushed with olive oil and dusted with cumin and kosher salt.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Roma tomatoes | 6 – 8, chopped |
| Limes (juice) | 2 – 3, freshly squeezed |
| Red onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Canned chickpeas | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Canned black beans | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Olive oil | 1 – 2 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt | 1 – 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh ground black pepper | To taste |
| Minced garlic cloves | 2 – 4 |
| Green pepper | 1, diced |
| Green onion | 1 – 2, sliced |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 377.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 831.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 63.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.7 g |
| Sugars | 7.9 g |
| Protein | 15.5 g |
Preparation Instructions
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped roma tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained), and canned black beans (also rinsed and drained). Toss in the diced green pepper and sliced green onion for added crunch and color.
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Add Seasonings: Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and the freshly squeezed juice of the limes. Season with kosher salt, fresh ground black pepper, and minced garlic cloves to taste.
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Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring that the beans and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Marinate: For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least an hour in the refrigerator. This marinating step helps the flavors meld together beautifully, although you might find it hard to wait if you’re eager to dig in right away!
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Serve: Once marinated, give the salad a final stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, accompanied by toasted pita triangles for a delicious crunch.
Variations and Tips
- Pepper Choices: Feel free to mix and match your peppers; while the recipe calls for green and red, adding yellow and orange bell peppers can enhance both the flavor and visual appeal.
- Additions: This recipe is versatile, so consider adding other ingredients such as diced cucumbers, avocado, or corn to further enhance its texture and taste.
- Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep.
This Colorful Chickpea and Black Bean Salad is not only a healthy addition to your meal but also an exciting way to enjoy the wonderful flavors of beans and fresh vegetables. With its delightful combination of textures and the ability to adapt to your preferences, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any gathering. Enjoy the vibrant colors and fresh taste while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients!
