Go Back
In the world of healthy eating, finding a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying can often feel like a challenge. Enter the Crunchy Chickpea & Spinach Delight—a salad that marries the wholesome benefits of chickpeas with fresh greens, creating a vibrant, delectable dish that appeals to health-conscious individuals and food lovers alike. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients, making it an excellent choice for lunch, dinner, or as a delightful side dish for any occasion.

Crispy Chickpea Spinach Salad

Discover the Crunchy Chickpea & Spinach Delight, a vibrant salad that masterfully combines the nutritional goodness of chickpeas and fresh spinach. This easy-to-make dish is not just visually appealing; it's packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it perfect for any meal or as a vibrant side. With roasted chickpeas and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad offers a delicious way to boost your health while enjoying every bite. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or gatherings!

Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, thoroughly drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon ground cumin

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

4 cups fresh spinach, carefully washed and dried

1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half

½ small red onion, finely sliced

1 ripe avocado, diced into bite-sized pieces

¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Juice of 1 fresh lemon

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Fresh herbs for garnish (e.g., chopped parsley or cilantro)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the chickpeas.

    Prepare the Chickpeas: On a baking sheet, spread the drained chickpeas out in a single layer. Drizzle the olive oil over them, then evenly sprinkle the smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss the chickpeas well with your hands or a spatula, ensuring they are fully coated in the oil and spices.

      Roast the Chickpeas: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the chickpeas for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through, give the pan a good shake to promote even cooking. You want them to be crispy and golden brown.

        Assemble the Salad: While the chickpeas are roasting, grab a large salad bowl. Add the fresh spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and diced avocado. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix well.

          Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and a couple of pinches of salt and pepper. Once combined, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients without bruising the spinach.

            Add Chickpeas & Cheese: When the chickpeas are golden and slightly cooled, add them on top of the salad. If you’re using feta cheese, sprinkle it generously over the salad for a creamy finish.

              Garnish & Serve: Finish by garnishing with a handful of fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy a delightful crunch in every bite!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings