We're LOVING this tasty Chimichurri Chickpea Salad! Chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion are tossed in a quick and easy chimichurri dressing for a healthy salad that's fast and flavorful!
For a lightly dressed salad, make chimichurri as instructed. For an additional punch of flavor, double the chimichurri recipe and add as much as your heart desires! Leftover chimichurri can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for several days. Simply bring back to room temperature and add it to anything and everything! It's great on various proteins (steak, chicken, salmon, shrimp) and for my vegan + vegetarian friends -try it on roasted cauliflower or stir it into a fluffy quinoa grain bowl! It also makes a fabulous marinade.
To make the chimichurri, peel/smash/mince garlic, chop parsley, then deseed and finely chop chili pepper. Combine all ingredients and stir. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes while you prep your salad. The longer you let it sit the better the flavors will be!
To make the salad, chop tomatoes, cucumber, and onion then combine in a large bow. Add drained/rinsed chickpeas and mix together.
Coat your veggies in chimichurri and mix well. Give it a taste then adjust flavors to taste for a perfectly custom flavor profile. Lemon juice and/or red wine vinegar may be added to brighten up the flavors or add a kiss of tartness. Additional olive oil may also be added if desired along with the lemon/vinegar. Non-vegans can add crumbled feta cheese for a bit of creaminess or try pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for a salty crunch. Enjoy!
Notes
This salad can be made in advance and allowed to sit on the counter while you make lunch/dinner or prep other dishes. The longer all the ingredients marinate the more the flavors will be allowed to mingle and intensify. Love it so!Nutrition Facts below are estimated using an online recipe nutrition calculator. Adjust as needed based on extras/swaps and enjoy!