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Fall Chickpea Salad Recipe

Fall Chickpea Salad Recipe

5.3 from 17 reviews

A vibrant and nutritious Fall Chickpea Salad combining crisp apples, creamy avocado, crunchy nuts, and tangy cranberries, all tossed in a flavorful maple-Dijon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a side dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 15 ounces chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 large apple, chopped (preferably Honeycrisp)
  • 1 avocado, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rinsed chickpeas, chopped apple, chopped avocado, fresh lemon juice, chopped red onion, nuts, dried cranberries, and crumbled cheese if using. The lemon juice helps prevent the avocado from browning and adds a fresh tang.
  2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
  3. Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the chickpea mixture and gently stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For best results, use a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp for added sweetness and crunch.
  • Walnuts or pecans can be toasted lightly to enhance their flavor.
  • Omit cheese to make this salad vegan-friendly.
  • This salad is best served fresh to maintain the texture of the avocado and apples.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; add avocado just before serving to avoid browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall salad, chickpea salad, apple salad, avocado salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, autumn recipe