Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

This Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad is a bold and flavorful dish packed with protein-rich chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty harissa dressing. It’s the perfect balance of spice, freshness, and tanginess, making it an excellent option for a light lunch, side dish, or meal prep.

Why Everyone Loves Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

This salad is quick to make, full of nutrients, and bursting with bold flavors. The harissa dressing adds a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs. For more healthy and delicious meal ideas, check out Quick & Easy Recipes for Every Home Cook.

Ingredients

Salad:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Harissa Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp harissa paste
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.

Step 2: Make the Harissa Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, harissa paste, honey, cumin, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Drizzle the harissa dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if using.

How to Serve Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Pair with warm pita bread or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Top with toasted almonds or sunflower seeds for added crunch.

How to Store Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
• Give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Tips to Make the Best Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

• Adjust the harissa amount to control the spice level.
• Use fresh lemon juice for a bright and tangy flavor.
• Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

Variations of Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Swap harissa for balsamic vinegar and add kalamata olives.
• Grain-Based Salad: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for a heartier dish.
• Vegan Option: Skip the feta or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

FAQs About Harissa-Spiced Chickpea Salad

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes! Soak and cook dried chickpeas until tender before using.

Is harissa very spicy?
Harissa has a moderate heat level, but you can adjust it by using more or less paste.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together.

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