Chickpea Salad with Raisins and Fresh Herbs

This chickpea salad is a delightful mix of fresh herbs, sweet raisins, and vibrant citrus flavors. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish at dinner. The base of this salad is nutrient-rich chickpeas, which provide a substantial texture and are packed with protein and fiber. Enhanced with the sweetness of raisins and the tartness of lemon, the salad is both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint adds a distinct freshness that elevates the dish. Red onion gives it a slight sharpness, which is balanced by the sweetness of pomegranate seeds. The dressing, made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and honey, binds all the flavors beautifully. This salad is easy to prepare and can be served as part of a larger meal or enjoyed on its own. It's also a great dish to bring to picnics or potlucks, as it is both nutritious and colorful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 clove garlic
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 2 tsp honey
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red onion
• 400g can of chickpeas
• 75g raisins
• 3 tbsp chopped parsley leaves
• 3 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 3 tbsp chopped mint leaves
• 1 pomegranate

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Mince 1 clove of garlic and chop the red onion finely.
2. Prepare the fresh herbs by finely chopping 3 tablespoons each of parsley, cilantro, and mint leaves.
3. Rinse and drain the chickpeas to remove any excess salt or preservatives.
4. Soak 75g of raisins in 50ml of hot water for about 5 minutes until they plump up.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 2 teaspoons of honey, ½ lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil to create the dressing.
6. Mix the minced garlic into the dressing.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, soaked raisins, and chopped red onion.
8. Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, and mint to the chickpea mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
9. Halve the pomegranate and remove the seeds by tapping the skin with a wooden spoon, and add them to the bowl.
10. Pour the dressing over the chickpea salad and toss everything gently so that the dressing coats all the ingredients.
11. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary. You may add a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the flavors.
12. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
13. Serve the salad in a large salad bowl or on individual plates.
14. For extra texture, consider adding some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.
15. This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
16. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled at the bottom of the bowl.
17. If desired, garnish with additional mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
18. This dish pairs well with grilled fish or chicken, adding a refreshing element to heavier dishes.
19. For a vegetarian meal, consider serving alongside flatbread or on a bed of mixed greens.
20. The combination of sweet, savory, and fresh makes this salad a versatile dish for any occasion.

Tips

• You can substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
• Use canned chickpeas to save time, but ensure they are well rinsed and drained.
• For additional crunch, top with roasted nuts or seeds before serving.
• This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 10g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Add cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness.
• Include feta cheese for a creamy texture and additional flavor.
• Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a tangier taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side with grilled meats or fish.
• Pair with naan or pita bread for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Garnish with additional herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for presentation.
• Accompany with a glass of crisp white wine or iced tea for a refreshing beverage pairing.

Best Places

• Zahav - A renowned spot for Middle Eastern cuisine. Location: 237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, USA.
• Ottolenghi - Famous for its salads and Mediterranean dishes. Location: 287 Upper St, London, UK.
• Tanoreen - Offers a mix of classic and modern Middle Eastern flavors. Location: 7523 3rd Ave, Brooklyn, USA.
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• Comptoir Libanais - A casual spot for colorful Lebanese dishes. Location: Multiple locations across London, UK.
• Sababa - Specializes in charcoal-grilled dishes and mezze. Location: 3311 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, D.C., USA.
• Miznon - Offers creative Mediterranean street food. Location: 435 W 15th St, New York, USA.
• The Palomar - Blends London vibes with Jerusalem's cuisine. Location: 34 Rupert St, London, UK.
• Al Fassia - Women-operated eatery serving Moroccan fare. Location: 55 Ave Allal Fassi, Marrakech, Morocco.
• Anoushka's - Contemporary Middle Eastern dining experience. Location: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE.