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Israeli Chickpea Salad with Mustard Greens

Israeli Chickpea Salad with Mustard Greens

The ultimate summer dish, Israeli Chickpea Salad with Mustard Greens combines protein-rich chickpeas with fresh vegetables and zesty lemon for a vibrant salad. Perfect for picnics or a light dinner, this easy recipe will surely become a favorite.
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chickpeas rinsed and drained, if from a can
  • 1 cup diced seedless cucumber skin removed
  • 4 purple or regular scallions thinly sliced
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • 1 Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 bunch mustard greens about 8 leaves
  • 1/4 cup roughly chopped parsley leaves

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together the chickpeas, cucumber, scallions, garlic, lemon juice and zest, cumin, paprika, and salt. You can make the salad up to this point and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  2. Stack the mustard green leaves with the largest at the bottom, smallest at the top. Trim away the stem and discard. Roll the leaves width-wise into a cigar. Turn the roll over so that the opening is touching the cutting board. Thinly slice the cigar - the result will be beautiful ribbons of mustard greens.
  3. When you are about ready to eat, fold in the mustard greens and parsley with the chickpea mixture. Taste for seasoning and add more salt and lemon juice as needed. Serve at room temperature.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to two days.
  • Freezing: While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chickpea mixture without the greens for longer storage.
  • Pairing: Serve with grilled chicken, fish, or even as a filling in pita pockets for a delicious meal.
  • Spice Level: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced chili peppers or a pinch of cayenne to the mix.
  • Herb Variations: Feel free to swap parsley for other fresh herbs like cilantro or dill to change the flavor profile.
  • Nutty Flavor: For added crunch, mix in some toasted nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds.