SPINACH AND CHICKPEA SALAD WITH LEMON-TAHINI DRESSING RECIPE
5/5
Spinach and Chickpea Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing is a vibrant and nutritious salad recipe. It features fresh spinach leaves, hearty chickpeas, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty lemon-tahini dressing. This salad is packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal. The lemon-tahini dressing adds a creamy and tangy flavor that complements the ingredients perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side dish, this Spinach and Chickpea Salad is a delicious choice that will leave you feeling energized and nourished.
INGREDIENTS
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons roasted sunflower seeds (optional)
For the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (as needed to adjust consistency)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the spinach leaves, cooked chickpeas, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, mint leaves, and sunflower seeds (if using).
- Toss the ingredients gently to mix well.
- Prepare the Lemon-Tahini Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, and whisk until you achieve a smooth and pourable consistency. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Drizzle the Lemon-Tahini Dressing over the salad.
- Toss the salad gently to evenly coat the ingredients with the dressing.
- Serve:
- Divide the salad into individual serving plates or bowls.
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs or sunflower seeds if desired.
- Serve the Spinach and Chickpea Salad immediately.
WEIGHT LOSS TIPS
- Use minimal or no added oil in the dressing.
- Keep portion sizes in check and listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
- Consider adding more vegetables and reducing the amount of chickpeas if you prefer a lower-calorie option.
- Opt for fresh, whole ingredients to maximize nutrient intake.
- Incorporate regular physical activity into your weight loss journey for optimal results.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 8-10g
