why make this recipe
Chickpea and Cauliflower Salad is a delightful dish packed with nutrition. It offers a great mix of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any meal. This salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It is full of healthy ingredients like chickpeas, cauliflower, and sweet potatoes, providing plenty of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can be enjoyed by anyone, making it a great option for gatherings.
how to make Chickpea and Cauliflower Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Arugula
- 3 large Carrots, shredded
- 1 head Cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 can Chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 large Lemons, juiced
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 Sweet potato, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup Tahini
- 1/2 tsp ground Black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp Salt
- 6 tbsp extra virgin Olive oil
- 2 tsp ground Cumin
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the sweet potato into cubes, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast the sweet potato in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden and tender.
- While the sweet potato is roasting, rinse and drain the chickpeas.
- Chop the cauliflower into small florets and steam or roast until tender.
- In a large bowl, combine arugula, shredded carrots, chickpeas, roasted cauliflower, and sweet potatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with Greek yogurt on the side.
how to serve Chickpea and Cauliflower Salad
You can serve Chickpea and Cauliflower Salad as a main dish or a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone as a light meal. A dollop of Greek yogurt on each serving adds a creamy texture, making it even more enjoyable.
how to store Chickpea and Cauliflower Salad
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. However, if you have added Greek yogurt, consider adding it fresh when you serve to keep the salad creamy.
tips to make Chickpea and Cauliflower Salad
- For extra crunch, you can add nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or walnuts.
- Feel free to use any leftover vegetables you have on hand; this salad is very flexible.
- Make sure not to overcook the cauliflower; it should be tender but still have a slight crunch.
variation
If you want to add a little spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also substitute the tahini with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
2. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored for a few days in the fridge.
3. Can I use other vegetables in this salad?
Yes! You can customize the salad with your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumber, or even avocado for creaminess.