Smashed Chickpea & Quinoa Salad
There are fewer things better than a summer cookout. You're surrounded by friends and family, sun shining on your face, a cold beverage in hand, laughter, the smell of a smoky grill and food. Oh the food. It's totally the best part, am I right? I really love the side dishes. I'm not a big
There are fewer things better than a summer cookout. You're surrounded by friends and family, sun shining on your face, a cold beverage in hand, laughter, the smell of a smoky grill and food. Oh the food. It's totally the best part, am I right? I really love the side dishes. I'm not a big
- Carbohydrate 39.3030611492235 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.37730586385884 g
- Fiber 7.12040515646545 g
- Protein 8.54923147610245 g
- Saturated Fat 0.390387414855161 g
- Serving Size 1 1 – 6 serving (229g)
- Sodium 448.61882793147 mg
- Sugar 32.1826559927581 g
- Trans Fat 1.44227366469089 g
- Calories 225 calories
Step-by-step
- Rinse and drain chickpeas and add to a large bowl. Using a potato masher or fork, mash chickpeas until mostly crushed but still some beans remain intact.
- Add quinoa, tomato, cucumber, and onion and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, oil, mustard, sriracha, lemon juice and spices.
- Pour over salad and stir until all ingredients are coated. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Serve immediately or chill in fridge for 1–2 hours. Salad can be made 1–2 days ahead of time (or can be used as leftovers).
Smashed Chickpea & Quinoa Salad: The Perfect Summer Side Dish
Summer is here, and for me, that means sunshine, good company, and delicious food. Cookouts are a staple in my family, and while I love the main courses, it's the side dishes that often steal the show. This Smashed Chickpea & Quinoa Salad is a recent addition to our cookout repertoire, and it's quickly become a favorite. It's vibrant, refreshing, and packed with flavor – the perfect complement to grilled meats or simply enjoyed on its own.
What I love most about this salad is its versatility. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time. The ingredients are simple, readily available, and can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables, herbs, or spices to personalize it even further. It's also incredibly healthy, offering a good source of protein and fiber. The chickpeas add a delightful creamy texture, and the quinoa provides a satisfying heartiness. And let's not forget the zingy lemon juice and spicy sriracha – they bring a delightful balance to the dish.
This salad is also perfect for meal prepping. It tastes even better the next day, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. You can also easily double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings. I've made this salad for numerous potlucks and parties, and it's always a huge hit. The vibrant colors and inviting flavors attract everyone's attention.
Beyond cookouts, this salad is a great option for a light lunch, a healthy dinner side, or even a picnic. The flavors hold up well at room temperature, making it a perfect choice for outdoor adventures. Its simple yet satisfying nature appeals to people of all ages, and its nutritional value means you don't have to feel guilty about indulging.
Why this recipe works:
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time means you can enjoy this salad in minutes.
- Flavorful and Refreshing: The combination of chickpeas, quinoa, and fresh vegetables creates a light yet satisfying flavor profile.
- Healthy and Nutritious: A great source of protein and fiber, perfect for a healthy meal.
- Versatile: Easily customize the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping and entertaining.
This isn't just a salad; it's a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. It’s a taste of summer, bottled up in a bowl, waiting to be enjoyed. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or skip it altogether), and get ready to experience the delightful flavors of this Smashed Chickpea & Quinoa Salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Herby delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for added freshness.
- Add some crunch: Toasted nuts or seeds add a delicious textural element.
- Make it creamy: Use full-fat vegan mayonnaise or a Greek yogurt alternative for a richer texture.
- Get creative with veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or other vegetables you enjoy.
I hope you enjoy this salad as much as I do! Let me know in the comments how you customize it and what your favorite additions are. Happy cooking!
