This is my go-to summer salad. It's crisp, flavorful, and goes with everything. With the help of my garden and a pantry staple I usually have all of the ingredients on hand. The addition of chick peas and a bold dressing really transform all of the ingredients into something incredibly delicious. This is the perfect side to anything grilled or can even stand on its own for a light lunch. I promise if you give it a try, it will become one of your new favorites.
Ingredients for Favorite Chick Pea Salad:
Salad:
1 15-ounce can Chick Peas also known as Garbanzo beans
1 English cucumber, peeled, halved, seeded and diced
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup red onions, diced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley or a combination of both
Dressing:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons white pepper
Time-Saving Tip: The salad can be assembled in advance and dressed about 20-30 minutes before serving. The dressing can be made in advance.
Let's see what we need.
We're ready to cook.
I always like to prepare the dressing first. I like to add all of the dressing ingredients in a small jar. Once I add the ingredients I put the lid on the jar and shake. It's easier for me. If you don't have a jar a small bowl and spoon to stir works, too. Set aside.
Add all of the salad ingredients to a large bowl and combine. Give the dressing a few shakes and toss it into the salad. That's it...easy-peasy.
It's ready! It looks so delicious that I always start eating it right out of the bowl. I've been making and serving this salad for 20 years and I never tire of it. It's one of those simple recipes that everyone loves. And leftovers are awesome the next day.
Enjoy!