This vibrant cranberry walnut chickpea salad with a zesty orange vinaigrette is the perfect dish for a festive gathering or a healthy weeknight meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, this salad is both delicious and nutritious. It's also incredibly versatile – serve it as a salad, a dip, or even a sandwich filling! This recipe goes beyond the typical chickpea salad, offering a unique flavor profile that will impress your taste buds.
What Makes This Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Special?
This recipe stands out due to its unexpected combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and the bright, tangy orange vinaigrette. The chickpeas provide a hearty base, offering a good source of protein and fiber. The orange vinaigrette adds a refreshing twist, cutting through the richness of the walnuts and cranberries, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Orange Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Walnuts: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool completely, then chop.
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Make the Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Combine Salad Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, cranberries, chopped walnuts, red onion, and parsley.
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Dress the Salad: Add the olive oil to the chickpea mixture and gently toss to coat. Pour the orange vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss again to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve: Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad is delicious on its own, as a dip with crackers or vegetables, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned cranberries instead of dried cranberries?
Yes, you can absolutely use canned cranberries. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the salad. Keep in mind that canned cranberries will have a slightly different texture and sweetness level than dried cranberries.
How can I make this salad vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! Just ensure that your honey substitute (if using) is also vegan. Maple syrup is a great option.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, creating an even more delicious salad.
What other nuts can I use in this salad?
Feel free to experiment with other nuts! Pecans, almonds, or pistachios would all be delicious additions.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Consider adding chopped celery, bell peppers, or cucumber for extra crunch and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 8-10 grams
This cranberry walnut chickpea salad with orange vinaigrette is a delicious and healthy recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
