Discover the vibrant flavors of Nepal with this fresh and nourishing chickpea and spinach salad. Drawing on culinary traditions from the Himalayas, this salad balances earthy chickpeas with verdant spinach and a medley of spices, offering a delightful journey of taste.
2cupscooked chickpeaspreferably organic, rinsed and drained
3cupsbaby spinachfresh and washed
1mediumred onionfinely sliced
1mediumtomatodiced
1tablespoonfresh lemon juicefrom about half a lemon
1tablespoonolive oil
1teaspoonground cuminfreshly ground for best flavor
1teaspooncoriander powder
0.5teaspoonturmeric powder
0.5teaspoonsaltto taste
0.25teaspoonred chili flakesoptional, adjust to taste
2tablespoonsfresh cilantrochopped
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Instructions
Prepare the salad dressing by whisking together the lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt in a small bowl.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, spinach, red onion, tomato, and red chili flakes if using.
Drizzle the salad dressing over the chickpea and spinach mixture. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
To amplify the salad's depth of flavor, consider toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them. For a bit more crunch, you can add a handful of toasted nuts or seeds. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, enhancing its versatility as an accompaniment or as a main dish.