Name: Turkish Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 tbsp olive oil; 15 oz cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp turmeric; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp black pepper, more or less to taste; 1 sweet onion, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red pepper, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp sun dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped; 1 tbsp sumac; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp red apple vinegar; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp vegan sugar, optional; 1 cup red cabbage, chopped; 1 cup cilantro, chopped, sub with parsley if needed; 5–6 fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Turkish Chickpea Salad is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor and nutrition. This vibrant salad is perfect for summer meal prep and can be enjoyed at picnics, barbecues, or as a wholesome lunch. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients not only makes it incredibly tasty but also packed with health benefits. You’ll love how quickly it comes together—ready in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 20 minutes, this Turkish Chickpea Salad is perfect for busy days.
Flavorful Spices: The unique blend of spices adds depth and richness that elevates the humble chickpea.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side—it’s great for any occasion!
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this salad is both filling and healthy.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Turkish Chickpea Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chickpeas and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all ingredients effortlessly.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of vegetables for uniformity in size.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting and prepping ingredients.

Ingredients

You’ll be shocked at the amount of flavor in this 20-minute inspired Turkish chickpea salad. Summer meal prep level up!

4 tbsp olive oil, (divided)
15 oz chickpeas, (cooked, drained and rinsed)
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp black pepper, (more or less to taste)
1 sweet onion, (thinly sliced)
4 cloves garlic, (minced)
1 red pepper, (thinly sliced)
2 tbsp sun dried tomatoes in oil, (finely chopped)
1 tbsp sumac
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp red apple vinegar
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp vegan sugar, (optional)
1 cup red cabbage, (chopped)
1 cup cilantro, (chopped) (sub with parsley if needed)
5–6 fresh basil leaves, (chopped)
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

How to Make Turkish Chickpea Salad

Step 1: Cook the Chickpeas

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Then add the chickpeas:
* Stir to coat the chickpeas in oil for about one minute.
* Sprinkle in all the spices from garam masala to black pepper.
* Cook for five minutes until the chickpeas are fragrant and red in color.
* Pour the chickpeas into a large bowl, scraping all spices from the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil:
* Add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Stir frequently for about three to four minutes until soft.
* Incorporate the thinly sliced red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, and half a teaspoon of salt. Stir well and cook for an additional two minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Remove from heat and let cool slightly:
* Add red apple vinegar along with remaining spices from chili powder to vegan sugar. Mix well.
* Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the bowl with chickpeas. Add chopped red cabbage, cilantro, basil, and lemon juice.
* Toss everything together until well combined. Serve cold or warm.

Enjoy your delicious Turkish Chickpea Salad!

How to Serve Turkish Chickpea Salad

Turkish chickpea salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether as a main course or a side, its vibrant flavors and textures make it a delightful addition to any meal.

As a Main Course

Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal.
Pair with warm pita bread for a satisfying combination.

As a Side Dish

Complement grilled chicken or turkey for added protein.
Enjoy alongside roasted veggies to enhance the meal’s color and nutrition.

In Wraps

Use large lettuce leaves or pita pockets to create delicious wraps.
Add extra toppings like avocado or sprouts for crunch.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve over a bed of mixed greens for an elegant presentation.
Drizzle with additional lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

How to Perfect Turkish Chickpea Salad

To elevate your Turkish chickpea salad, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

Use fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro and basil add brightness and depth to the salad.
Adjust spices: Feel free to modify the spices based on your taste preferences for more heat or sweetness.
Chill before serving: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld together.
Experiment with textures: Add crunchy toppings like toasted seeds or nuts for an exciting twist.

Best Side Dishes for Turkish Chickpea Salad

Turkish chickpea salad pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to complement this flavorful salad:

Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant adds smoky flavor.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs makes a nutritious side that balances the salad’s flavors.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in lemon and olive oil enhances freshness.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spices in the salad.
Hummus Platter: Serve with assorted veggies and pita chips for dipping; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Rice Pilaf: Aromatic rice cooked with spices complements the chickpeas nicely and adds heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkish Chickpea Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chickpeas can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to coat them well with spices for maximum taste.
Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking onions and garlic too long can make them lose their flavor. Sauté them just until soft and fragrant for the best results.
Not letting it cool: Adding vinegar while the mixture is still hot can dull its flavor. Allow the salad to cool slightly before mixing in the vinegar.
Ignoring texture balance: Focusing solely on flavors might make you forget about textures. Include crunchy ingredients like red cabbage for a refreshing bite.
Using stale herbs: Fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly. Always use fresh cilantro and basil for vibrant flavor rather than dried alternatives.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness and crunchiness.

Freezing Turkish Chickpea Salad

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Turkish Chickpea Salad

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until warm.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to questions you might have about Turkish Chickpea Salad.

What is Turkish Chickpea Salad?

Turkish Chickpea Salad is a vibrant mix of chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and bold spices that come together quickly for a delicious meal or side dish.

Can I customize my Turkish Chickpea Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap ingredients like different veggies, nuts, or seeds based on your preferences.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make your Turkish Chickpea Salad more substantial, consider adding grains like quinoa or farro.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! This salad keeps well in the refrigerator and is perfect for making ahead of time for lunches or quick dinners.

Final Thoughts

Turkish Chickpea Salad is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect as a main course or a side dish. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or grains. Give this quick and nutritious recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!