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Homemade Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Cumin Dressing photo

Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Cumin Dressing

This Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Cumin Dressing is a vibrant, nutritious delight! Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it's perfect for any meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 1 15.5 ounce can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion diced
  • 4 cups baby spinach leaves (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint coarsely chopped
For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest finely grated
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons plain nonfat yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. Begin by draining and rinsing the chickpeas under cold water. This helps remove any excess sodium and improves the flavor. Next, chop the fresh parsley and mint, and dice the red onion.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, finely grated lemon zest, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined. Then, add the plain nonfat yogurt, fresh squeezed orange juice, finely grated orange zest, and honey. Mix until the dressing is creamy and smooth.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed chickpeas, chopped parsley, diced red onion, baby spinach leaves, and coarsely chopped mint. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the flavorful dressing.
  4. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.
  5. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. This Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Cumin Dressing can be enjoyed immediately, but it also tastes great after sitting for a bit, allowing the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
  • This salad is naturally gluten-free; just ensure your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Keep the spinach separate until serving to prevent wilting if making ahead of time.