Chickpeas are more than just a source of protein – they represent abundance and sustenance in many cultures. Their round shape symbolises completeness and unity. Combined with fresh, life-giving...
Welcome
…to a celebration of one of nature’s most perfect foods – the mighty chickpea! ThisMiddle Eastern (North East African) Chickpea Saladbrings together a bounty of fresh vegetables with protein-rich legumes in a dance of flavours that awakens the senses. This dish honours the ancient wisdom of Middle Eastern and North East African cuisine while providing the vital nutrients our bodies crave.
Why This Recipe Matters
In the tradition of Middle Eastern (North East African) cooking, each ingredient carries its own sacred purpose.Chickpeas, known as garbanzo beans, have been nourishing communities for thousands of years, and is also a favourite bean for members of theVillage of Peace. This salad represents the perfect balance ofprotein,fibre, and fresh vegetables, creating a light yet satisfying meal that energises both body and spirit.
Interesting Facts About Key Ingredients
Did you know thatchickpeashave been cultivated for over 7,500 years? These remarkable legumes were one of the first cultivated vegetables in the Fertile Crescent, the birthplace of agriculture.Chickpeasare not only rich in protein – they also contain compounds called saponins that support the body’s natural healing processes. Plus, they provide significant amounts of three essential minerals: iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Ingredients
For the Salad:2 cups cookedchickpeas(or 1 can organic chickpeas, drained and rinsed)1 organic cucumber, diced1 ripe organic tomato, diced1/4 cup red onion, finely choppedOptional: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, choppedOptional: 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
2 cups cookedchickpeas(or 1 can organic chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
1 organic cucumber, diced
1 ripe organic tomato, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Optional: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
For the Dressing:2 tablespoons cold-pressed olive oilJuice of 1 fresh lemon1 teaspoon ground cuminHerbal salt to tasteOptional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for added B-vitamins
2 tablespoons cold-pressed olive oil
Juice of 1 fresh lemon
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Herbal salt to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast for added B-vitamins
Instructions
Prepare with Mindfulness:
If using cannedchickpeas, rinse thoroughly under cool water.
Dice vegetables into uniform sizes for a beautiful presentation.
Finely chop herbs if using.
Create the Fresh Base:
In a large bowl, combinechickpeas, diced cucumber, and tomatoes.
Add finely chopped red onion.
Add fresh herbs if desired.
Craft the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk togethercold-pressed olive oiland fresh lemon juice.
Add ground cumin and herbal salt.
Optional: add nutritional yeast for a subtle, savoury flavour.
Unite the Elements:
Pour dressing over the salad.
Gently toss all ingredients until well combined.
Let stand for 10 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
Tips for Success
Use driedchickpeaswhen possible, soaked overnight and cooked until tender.
Choose firm, crisp cucumbers for the best texture.
Dice vegetables uniformly for the most pleasing presentation.
Usecold-pressed olive oilfor maximum nutritional benefits.
Allow salad to rest before serving to develop flavours fully.
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (serves 4):
Calories: 250
Protein: 11g
Fibre: 8g
Iron: 3mg
Folate: 180mcg
Vitamin C: 15mg
Calcium: 80mg
Spiritual and Health Benefits
Chickpeasare more than just a source of protein – they represent abundance and sustenance in many cultures. Their round shape symbolises completeness and unity. Combined with fresh, life-giving vegetables and herbs, this salad becomes a bowl of vibrant energy. The olive oil adds heart-healthy fats that help our bodies absorb nutrients, while the lemon juice awakens the flavours and adds cleansing properties.
Q: Can I prepare this salad in advance?
A: Yes! The flavours actually improve after a few hours. Just add the cucumber just before serving to maintain crispness.
Q: How long will this salad keep?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I sprout the chickpeas?
A: Yes! Sproutedchickpeasadd even more nutritional value and can be used in place of cooked chickpeas.
Call to Action
We’d love to see your creation! Share yourMiddle Eastern (North East African) Chickpea Saladphotos on Instagram and tag@VillageOfPeaceDimona. Let us know how this fresh, vibrant salad energised your day!
Conclusion
ThisMiddle Eastern (North East African) Chickpea Saladis more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of whole, plant-based ingredients that have nourished humanity for millennia. Each bite connects us to the earth’s bounty and the wisdom of traditional food preparation. By choosing organic ingredients and preparing them with mindfulness, we honour both our bodies and our planet.
Remember that the key to this salad’s success lies in the quality of your ingredients. Choose organic produce when possible, usecold-pressed olive oil, and approach the preparation as a meditation in gratitude for the abundance nature provides. May this fresh and vibrant dish bring light and energy to your table!
Support Your Plant-Based Journey with Village of Peace Merchandise
Extend the spirit of mindful eating into your daily life. Discover inspiring merchandise at ourVillage of Peace Shop, including T-shirts, mugs, and other items carrying messages of wellness and sustainability. Each purchase helps support a community dedicated to a healthier, more harmonious world.
Written by
Village of Peace
Village of Peace Dimona — Mastering the Art of Living
