Cold Chickpea and Tomato Salad
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Cold Chickpea and Tomato Salad is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, with minimal ingredients that pack a punch. The combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy chickpeas creates a revitalizing texture. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a standalone dish.
Recipe
A revitalizing and nutritious dish, this Cold Chickpea and Tomato Salad is perfect for summer picnics or a light lunch. Packed with protein and fresh flavors, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for added convenience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled.
Notes:
- Add feta cheese or avocado for extra creaminess.
- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a tangier flavor.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
Serving: 4
Calories: 180 per serving
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
This invigorating salad is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
| Potassium | 300 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 50 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my cold chickpea and tomato salad with grilled meats, like chicken or lamb, to add a hearty touch to the meal. A slice of fresh, crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the flavorful dressing and balancing the dish. It’s an easy way to make the salad feel complete and satisfying.
Grilled Meats
Grilling meats always puts me in a good mood, especially when I’ve got the perfect sides to go with them. Grilled chicken, with its smoky flavor, pairs beautifully with a cold chickpea and tomato salad—it’s light, crisp, and balances the richness perfectly. I love adding spicy sausage to the mix, too; its bold, zesty kick contrasts nicely with the salad’s cool, creamy texture. There’s something about the combo of charred meat and invigorating sides that makes a meal feel complete. Plus, it’s easy to throw together, which means more time to enjoy the company of friends or family.
Fresh Bread
While there’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread straight from the oven, figuring out what to serve with it can make it even more special. I love pairing it with fresh toppings like creamy avocado, tangy goat cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil and herbs. Bread varieties like crusty baguettes, soft focaccia, or hearty whole grain loaves each bring their own charm. One of my favorite combos is tearing into warm sourdough and dipping it into a bowl of seasoned olive oil. It’s simple, but it feels like a treat every time. Fresh bread just makes everything better!
