Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad: A Refreshing Summer Salad [Recipe]
Eating is an agricultural act. And so I believe we can’t talk about gardening without covering what to do with all the food your grow. Often times when we grow our own food, we are at the mercy of the garden and what it produces each week. This can make meal planning a challenge, so I often resort to everything but the kitchen sink recipes where you can start from a solid base and add whatever is filling your harvest basket that week.
This way of eating seasonally allows you the framework to eliminate yet another decision in your day - the ever present question of “what are we going to eat?” and turn it into a celebration of whatever ingredients are on hand. You might not know what you’ll pick tomorrow - but I can assure you if you follow the framework for this garden salad (chickpeas + the spices and liquids as a constant, some type of nut, some type of dried fruit and two crunchy fresh veggies) it will come out delicious every time.
As the warm summer days approach, there is something magical about harvesting fresh produce from your own garden and transforming it into a delectable dish. Today, I invite you to embark on a culinary adventure with a Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad. This recipe not only celebrates the joy of eating seasonally but also highlights the incredible flavors and health benefits of the ingredients we can grow and harvest right in our own backyard. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the garden, delve into the nutritional benefits of chickpeas, almonds, and chives, and guide you through the steps of creating this mouthwatering salad.
Embracing Seasonality and Celebrating Fresh Ingredients
Picture yourself strolling through your lush garden, feeling the sun on your skin, and taking in the fragrant aromas of blooming herbs. There's a sense of anticipation as you carefully pluck vibrant vegetables and herbs from their natural habitat. Eating seasonally is not only a celebration of the flavors nature provides, but it also connects us to the rhythm of the Earth.
By growing our own food, we have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the ingredients that surround us. From the tender greens to the vibrant vegetables, our gardens offer a cornucopia of flavors. Incorporating these freshly harvested treasures into our meals allows us to savor the true essence of each ingredient while embracing the philosophy of sustainability and self-sufficiency.
Health Benefits of Chickpeas, Almonds, and Chives
In addition to their exquisite taste, the ingredients in this vegan chickpea salad offer a plethora of health benefits that contribute to your overall well-being.
Chickpeas, a staple legume in plant-based diets, are a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas provide a satisfying and nourishing element to any dish. They are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, and magnesium. Consuming chickpeas has been linked to improved digestion, reduced cholesterol levels, and better weight management. Their nutty flavor and hearty texture make them a perfect addition to this summer salad.
Almonds, often referred to as "nature's multitaskers," bring a delightful crunch and a wealth of health benefits. These nutrient-dense nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E. Almonds are known to support heart health and boost brain function. In this salad, their presence adds a satisfying texture and nutty undertones that complement the other ingredients perfectly.
Chives, with their delicate onion-like flavor, provide more than just a pleasant taste. These leafy green herbs are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K. They also offer antioxidants and potential anti-inflammatory properties. Chives not only enhance the flavor profile of the salad but also contribute to its nutritional value.
Making a Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad
Now that we've explored the beauty of seasonality and the health benefits of the ingredients, let's dive into creating this delicious Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad.
Ingredients:
Chickpea Garden Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cans (or 3 cups cooked) chickpeas
- 1 cup carrots
- 1 cup green onion/chives
- 1/2 cup craisins, raisins or chopped dates
- 1/2 cup almonds or cashews
- 1/2 cup radishes (optional)
- 1/3 cup hummus or mayo
- 3 tbs lemon juice
- 1 tbs curry powder
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- salt + pepper
Instructions
- Chop any vegetables.
- Mash the chickpeas until only about 1/3 is unmashed.
- Add remaining ingredients to the chickpeas and stir.
- Enjoy on it's own, on a bed of lettuce or with pita.
Notes
Keeps well in the fridge for 3-5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
277.69Fat
10.57Sat. Fat
1.01Carbs
38.26Fiber
11.08Net carbs
27.21Sugar
9.66Protein
11.84Sodium
494.22Cholesterol
01 cup carrots
2 cans (or 3 cups cooked) chickpeas
1 cup green onion/chives
1/2 cup craisins, raisins or chopped dates
1/2 cup almonds or cashews
1/2 cup radishes (optional)
1/3 cup hummus or mayo
3 tbs lemon juice
1 tbs curry powder
3/4 tsp garlic powder
salt + pepper
Instructions:
Chop any vegetables
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas until about 2/3rds are mashed
Add remaining ingredients and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Allow the flavors to meld together for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Enjoy on it's own, in a pita or on a bed of lettuce.
Ways to Enjoy the Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad:
This versatile salad can be savored in various ways, allowing you to explore different culinary possibilities. Here are a few ideas:
Pita Pocket: Fill a warm pita bread with the chickpea salad, adding a dollop of hummus or tahini for extra creaminess. This creates a satisfying and portable meal for picnics or on-the-go lunches.
Bed of Greens: Serve the salad over a bed of fresh salad greens such as spinach or arugula for an extra burst of freshness and added nutrition.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and stuff them with the chickpea salad. Bake until the peppers are tender for a delightful, colorful, and healthy main course.
Lettuce Wraps: Wrap the salad in large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, for a light and refreshing option.
With the Garden-to-Plate Vegan Chickpea Salad, you can embark on a culinary journey that celebrates seasonality, garden-fresh ingredients, and the benefits of a plant-based diet. By savoring this delightful salad, you not only nourish your body with the nutritional goodness of chickpeas, almonds, and chives but also appreciate the joy of growing your own food. So, take advantage of the bountiful flavors of summer, cultivate your own garden-to-plate experience, and delight in the refreshing taste of this vibrant vegan salad recipe.
