Introduction
This Crunchy Thai Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Bursting with colors and flavors, it’s the perfect accompaniment for any meal or a stand-alone dish for a quick lunch. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts.
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies!
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
- For added crunch, consider topping with additional chopped peanuts before serving.
Cooking Techniques
To assemble this salad, simply chop, whisk, and toss. The beauty of this dish is that it requires no cooking—perfect for those warm days when you crave something fresh and light!
FAQ
- Can I make this salad gluten-free? Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Absolutely, it holds up well in the fridge.
- How can I make this salad spicier? Add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the dressing.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Thai Chickpea Salad is not only an explosion of flavors but also a nutritious option that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Easy to whip up and loaded with ingredients that are both accessible and delicious, it’s a meal you’ll keep coming back to. Enjoy this lively salad as a main dish or a delightful side!