Chickpea Salad

Life is all about balance. On the one hand you have rich, chocolate cupcakes and on the other you have a feel good, soul soothing salad. Now I really ought to have that salad but instead I indulge in a cupcake or two or three but seriously I stop at four. Yes four is my max! Or that's what I tell my inner gluttonous self.

But after a night of overindulgence, I needed to start this week off by eating healthy. And there's nothing I love more than a hearty, healthy and refreshing bowl of Chickpea Salad. The best part about this salad is that it's quick & easy cause let's face it...it's Monday morning and ain't nobody got time for that.

I can make this in the morning, throw it in a container, chill it in my fridge and by noon all the flavors have marinated enough that it adds the perfect tangy, crunch.

Ingredients:

Note: I do use canned chickpeas, corn and black beans.

• 1 Cup Chickpeas

• 1 Cup Corn

• 1 Cup Black Beans

• 1/4 - 1/2 Cup Chopped Tomatoes

• 1/4 - 1/2 Cup Chopped Red Onions

• 1/4 - 1/2 Cup Green Bell Pepper

• 2 Teaspoons Minced Garlic

• 2 Teaspoons Green Chili (Optional for that added kick)

• 2 - 3 Tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice

• Salt & Pepper

Method:

Note: I like to give ranges for a few ingredients because I know some people have strong aversions to certain produce i.e. onions and tomatoes. This way you can customize the dish to suit your taste buds and not necessarily mine. For example, I'm not a huge fan of raw tomatoes but I love fresh salsa. Go figure! So in this salad I do use the minimum amount to get the nutrients and avoid the raw tomato taste. It's a win win for all:)

1. Combine Chickpeas, Corn, Black Beans, Tomatoes, Onions, Bell Pepper. Give it a quick toss.

2. In a small bowl combine Garlic, Green Chili, Oil and Lemon Juice. Whisk together and pour over salad.

3. Crack some fresh sea salt and black pepper to taste and toss.

4. Chill for at least one hour in the fridge or eat right away. I prefer a chilled Chickpea Salad.

Alternate method: Literally toss all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and give it a quick whirl with a wooden spoon. Like I said quick and easy.

Optional throw ins:

1. 1/4 Crumbled Feta

2. 1/4 Orzo Pasta

3. 1/4 Chopped Cucumbers

I hope you enjoy this recipe. I love feedback and comments so be sure to leave me a little note. Follow me on Instagram for more real time updates on my cooking, baking and DIY adventures. IG Handle: teenas_table_

And remember: There's always room for one more on Teena's Table!