Spinach and Chickpea Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing
Spinach and Chickpea Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of baby spinach with the hearty texture of chickpeas. The addition of cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and optional feta cheese creates a medley of colors and flavors. The Mint Yogurt Dressing adds a tangy and cooling element to the salad, making it a delightful and well-balanced option.
INGREDIENTS
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mint Yogurt Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh baby spinach leaves, drained chickpeas, sliced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and optional crumbled feta cheese.
Add chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to the salad ingredients.
Season the salad with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Mint Yogurt Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, finely chopped mint leaves, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust the quantities to achieve the desired flavor and consistency.
Assembly:
Drizzle the Mint Yogurt Dressing over the salad.
Gently toss the salad to coat the ingredients with the dressing.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve:
Serve the Spinach and Chickpea Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing as a refreshing and nutritious dish.
Enjoy the salad as a light and satisfying lunch or as a side dish with grilled protein
TIPS
Customize the salad by adding roasted red peppers, olives, or toasted nuts.
For added protein, include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
The dressing can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until serving.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
- Protein: About 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g