Broccoli and Chickpea Salad – A Fresh and Nourishing Delight

Looking for a light yet satisfying meal? This Broccoli and Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. With crunchy broccoli, protein-rich chickpeas, juicy tomatoes, and tender potatoes, this salad offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic dressing, it’s refreshing, wholesome, and full of Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish, a meal prep lunch, or a quick dinner, this salad is a great way to nourish your body while keeping things simple and flavorful!

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups broccoli florets

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped (or diced red bell pepper)

1 cup boiled or roasted potatoes, diced

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 garlic clove, minced

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp paprika (optional)

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Blanch the Broccol

: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the broccoli florets, and blanch for 1-2 minutes until bright green. Drain and rinse with cold water.

Prepare the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, broccoli, cherry tomatoes (or bell pepper), and diced potatoes.

Toss with Dressing:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Garnish & Serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Broccoli and Chickpea Salad

1. Blanch the Broccoli :Quickly blanching the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes helps retain its bright green color and crisp texture while making it easier to digest.
2. Roast for Extra Flavor :If you prefer a deeper taste, roast the broccoli and chickpeas in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients :Fresh, firm broccoli, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality chickpeas will enhance the overall taste and texture of your salad.
4. Customize the Dressing : Adjust the lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard in the dressing to suit your taste. You can also add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra zing!
5. Make It Creamy : Want a creamier version? Try adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt, tahini, or mashed avocado to the dressing.
6. Add a Crunch : Sprinkle in some toasted nuts (almonds, walnuts) or seeds (pumpkin, sunflower) for added texture and nutrition.
7. Meal Prep Friendly ️ ;This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option. Store it in an airtight container and add the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

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