Are you looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful salad that packs a punch? Look no further! This Crunchy Broccoli and Chickpea Salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a potluck favorite. With its combination of fresh vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and a creamy tahini dressing, this salad will satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head broccoli, chopped into small pieces (about 4 cups)
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- ⅓ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
- 3 ounces crumbled goat cheese
- ¼ cup tahini
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, chickpeas, yellow bell pepper, celery, red onion, slivered almonds, and goat cheese.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the tahini, water, maple syrup or honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Pour the dressing over the salad and stir until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Servings: 4
Tips and Variations
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the goat cheese with a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
- Add Some Crunch: Include some toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika or cumin to the dressing for a smoky flavor.
- Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate and mix it in when you’re ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This salad is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Broccoli provides a good dose of fiber and vitamins, while chickpeas add protein and a satisfying texture. The creamy tahini dressing, with its hint of sweetness from maple syrup or honey, perfectly complements the fresh and crunchy vegetables. Plus, the slivered almonds and goat cheese add just the right amount of richness and flavor.
Enjoy this Crunchy Broccoli and Chickpea Salad as a refreshing and healthy meal option that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!