Hey there friend. Are you craving a tasty dish that’s ready in a flash? Well, get ready for the ultimate solution: the 5-Minute Spicy Chickpea Salad.
It is not just any salad; it’s a flavor-packed explosion of goodness that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
And the best part? You can whip it up in just 5 minutes. Yes, you heard me right – 5 minutes. So, let’s dive in and discover why this spicy chickpea salad is about to become your new favorite go-to meal.
Why I’m Sharing This 5-Minute Spicy Chickpea Salad Recipe
I believe that everyone deserves to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m excited to share this quick and easy recipe with you.
It matters not if you a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves good food, this spicy chickpea salad is perfect for satisfying your hunger in no time.
What Makes this Salad the Best?
What sets this spicy chickpea salad apart from the rest? It’s all about the combination of flavors and textures. The chickpeas add a satisfying crunch, while the spices and seasonings create a tantalizing heat that will wake up your taste buds.
With the addition of fresh veggies and a zesty dressing, every bite is bursting with vibrant flavor.
Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Alternative Ingredients/Variations
Here are some ingredients you can use in place of the ones above:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Chickpeas | Cannellini beans |
| Paprika | Chili powder |
| Cumin | Curry powder |
| Cayenne pepper | Crushed red pepper flakes |
| Feta cheese | Goat cheese |
| Cilantro | Parsley |
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chickpeas, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until chickpeas are heated through and coated in spices.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add the cooked chickpeas on top.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Expert Tips
- For extra crunch, roast the chickpeas in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Customize your salad with your favorite veggies and toppings.
- Make a big batch of spicy chickpeas ahead of time for easy meal prep.
Utensils/What You Need
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Serving plates or bowls
- Knife and cutting board
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?
Yes, canned chickpeas work perfectly fine. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before using.
Is this salad spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this spicy chickpea salad is vegetarian-friendly. Simply omit the feta cheese for a vegan option.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just be aware that the greens may become slightly wilted over time.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, you can. Feel free to add grilled chicken, tofu, or hard-boiled eggs for an extra protein boost.
Can I substitute any of the vegetables?
Yes. You can customize this salad with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, avocado, or radishes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap the feta cheese for goat cheese, shredded cheddar, or any cheese of your choice.
Have any comments or questions? Drop them in the comment box below. I will reply ASAP.
Also, check out our other recipes that are sure to make you go cray-cray with joy 😹.
You will find the recipe in full below 👇👇👇.
5-Minute Spicy Chickpea Salad
Ingredients
- 1 can 15 ounces chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ¼ cup cucumber diced
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chickpeas, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until chickpeas are heated through and coated in spices.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add the cooked chickpeas on top.
- Sprinkle with feta cheese and fresh cilantro, if desired.
Notes
- Customize your salad with your favorite veggies and toppings.
- For extra crunch, roast the chickpeas in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
