Introduction
This delightful smashed chickpea salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make it both nutritious and satisfying. Featuring a combination of creamy Greek yogurt, tangy apple cider vinegar, and sweet dried cherries, this dish is a wonderful addition to your meal repertoire. Enjoy it on toast or in lettuce wraps, and experience a burst of flavor in every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 shallot, diced
– ⅓ cup dried cherries
– ⅓ cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, plus extra for spritzing
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Arugula or microgreens, for serving
– Toast, for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 2 to 4 people
This refreshing smashed chickpea salad is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a light meal or appetizer. With its unique blend of ingredients, it offers a satisfying taste experience that is both healthy and delicious. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
Place the chickpeas in a large bowl. Use a potato masher to smash about half of the chickpeas, leaving some whole for texture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add the diced shallot, dried cherries, chopped pecans, and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl with the chickpeas. Season generously with a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the freshly ground nutmeg.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Mix the Salad
Pour the yogurt dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss everything together until all ingredients are well combined. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the smashed chickpea salad on slices of toast, topped with arugula or microgreens. Alternatively, you can enjoy this salad in lettuce wraps, on crackers, or as a filling for sandwiches.
Step 6: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute or add other nuts or dried fruits according to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs well with a light side salad or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone snack.
Freshness Tip
For the best flavor, consume within a couple of days after preparation, as the ingredients may lose their freshness over time.
Cook techniques
Mashing
Mashing is a technique used to break down ingredients into smaller pieces, creating a creamy texture. In this recipe, half of the chickpeas are smashed using a potato masher to provide a base for the salad while leaving some whole for added texture.
Mixing
Mixing combines ingredients to create a cohesive dish. After preparing the chickpeas, other components like shallots, dried cherries, pecans, and parsley are added and tossed together to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Whisking
Whisking is a method employed to blend ingredients smoothly. In this recipe, the Greek yogurt dressing ingredients are whisked together until they form a smooth and creamy sauce that binds the salad.
Seasoning
Seasoning enhances the flavor of a dish. In this salad, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and nutmeg are used to elevate the taste of the chickpea mixture, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
Serving
Serving involves presenting the dish appealingly. This salad can be served on toast and garnished with arugula or microgreens, or enjoyed in various other ways, such as in lettuce wraps or on crackers.
FAQ
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, canned chickpeas are convenient and work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well before using.
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! You can replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nut, depending on your taste preference.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or a vegan mayonnaise to keep the dish dairy-free.
How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
What else can I serve the salad with besides toast?
This salad is versatile and can be served in lettuce wraps, on crackers, as a filling for sandwiches, or atop a green salad.
Conclusion
This smashed chickpea salad offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, combining the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the crunch of pecans and the sweetness of dried cherries. It serves as a nutritious, versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, making it an excellent addition to your meal repertoire.
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