Description
Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or nutrition! This 5-Minute Spicy Chickpea Salad is the ultimate quick and healthy meal—packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh veggies, and a bold, zesty dressing with just the right amount of spice. Perfect for meal prep, lunch on the go, or a flavorful side dish, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or cilantro)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins:
- Avocado slices for creaminess
- Crumbled feta cheese for a salty twist
- Bell peppers or celery for extra crunch
Instructions
- Prep the veggies: In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh parsley. Gently toss.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chili flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve or store: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the chili flakes.
- Serve as a main dish, side salad, or dip with pita chips.
- For extra crunch, add diced bell peppers or toasted nuts.
- To make it creamier, mix in avocado or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Enjoy this quick, healthy, and flavor-packed 5-Minute Spicy Chickpea Salad any time you need a fuss-free meal!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~250
- Fat: ~14g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Protein: ~7g
Keywords: Spicy Chickpea Salad