Cranberry walnut chickpea salad made with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing. Moreover, it’s healthy, vegan, and perfect for quick meals.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1½ cups cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained)
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup diced cucumber or celery
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1½ tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
🍴 How to Make Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Base
First, add chickpeas, cranberries, walnuts, onion, and cucumber to a large bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Next, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 3: Combine & Chill
Then, pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
Finally, chill for 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.
⭐ Tips for the Best Salad
- Firstly, toast walnuts for deeper flavor.
- Moreover, massage chickpeas slightly for better absorption.
- Additionally, balance sweetness with extra lemon if needed.
- Finally, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔄 Variations to Try
- Protein Boost: Add quinoa or tofu
- Extra Crunch: Add apple or bell pepper
- Creamy Version: Stir in vegan yogurt
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes
- Herbed: Add dill or mint
💚 Health Benefits
Chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber.
Moreover, walnuts support heart and brain health.
Because cranberries are antioxidant-rich, this salad boosts immunity.
As a result, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
- Chop ingredients very finely
- Reduce onion quantity
- Add sweet corn or raisins
- Serve in wraps or sandwiches
🥗 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
