Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad is one of my favorite dishes to make. It is bright, fresh, and full of flavor! Whenever I prepare Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad, I feel excited because I know it will bring joy to everyone who eats it. This salad is not just healthy; it’s also very easy to make. I love how simple ingredients can create something so delicious.
Memories in Every Bite
I remember the first time I made Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad for my friends. We had a picnic in the park on a sunny day. I packed the salad in a big bowl and added a few sprigs of fresh parsley on top. When my friends tasted it, their faces lit up with delight. It was a wonderful moment, sharing laughter and tasty food. That day made me realize how food can bring people together.
A Twist on Tradition
What I love about Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad is how I can change it up. Sometimes, I add diced bell peppers for a crunch. Other times, I throw in some ripe avocado for creaminess. It’s like a new adventure each time I make it! I also enjoy making it when I have guests. It is a perfect side dish or a light meal. Everyone appreciates a healthy and tasty option.
I always feel proud when I share Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad with others. It’s a simple dish, but it makes people happy. Each bite is filled with love and care. I hope everyone who tries it feels the same joy I do. Cooking and sharing food is a special way to connect, and I can’t wait for my next picnic to bring this salad along again!
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad
- Avoid over-mashing the chickpeas to maintain texture; leave about 25% whole for a varied, chunky consistency that holds well in sandwiches or salads.
- While celery and green onions add a fresh bite, try adding chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.
- Fresh dill or parsley offers a vibrant flavor that complements the creaminess—use these if available for a taste boost.
- For a lighter texture, reduce the mayo and add a splash of lemon juice. Alternatively, mash half an avocado into the dressing for added creaminess.
- This salad gets better with a little resting time, allowing the flavors to meld. Prepare it a day in advance for an even tastier result.
- This salad is perfect as a sandwich filler, on top of greens, or scooped with whole-grain crackers. Experiment with pita bread or lettuce wraps for a refreshing twist.
Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad
Discover the ultimate quick and nutritious classic vegan chickpea salad that’s perfect for any occasion! Bursting with fresh vegetables, creamy plant-based mayo, and a delightful blend of flavors, this easy-to-make dish is a favorite among health enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, packing an office lunch, or serving at a potluck, this versatile salad promises both taste and satisfaction. Embrace a delicious plant-based lifestyle with this simple, customizable recipe that’s ready in just 10 minutes!
4
10
minutes0
minutes285
kcal20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Legumes
2 (15-ounce) cans garbanzo beans thoroughly drained and rinsed
- Vegetables
2 stalks celery finely chopped
3 green onions thinly sliced
- Fruits
3/4 cup seedless grapes halved or quartered if large
- Condiments
3 tablespoons plant-based mayonnaise homemade or store-bought
1 1/3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Spices
2/3 teaspoon dried dill
2/3 teaspoon poultry seasoning
Salt to taste
freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Alternative Ingredients:
Garbanzo beans: Substitute with black beans or white beans
Plant-based mayonnaise: Use mashed avocado or tahini dressing
Dijon mustard: Replace with yellow mustard or whole grain mustard
Celery: Use cucumber or bell peppers
Grapes: Swap with dried cranberries or apple chunks
Poultry seasoning: Use Italian seasoning or herbes de Provence
Dried dill: Substitute with fresh dill or parsley
Green onions: Use shallots or regular onions
Salt: Replace with sea salt or a splash of soy sauce for umami
Black pepper: Use white pepper or paprika for color
Directions
- Prepare Chickpeas – In a large mixing bowl, gently crush the drained and rinsed chickpeas using a fork or potato masher until most are mashed but some remain whole for texture. This balance ensures the salad holds together while providing a varied mouthfeel.
- Combine Vegetables and Fruits – Add the finely chopped celery, sliced green onions, and halved grapes to the bowl with chickpeas. These fresh ingredients add crunch and sweetness to the salad.
- Mix Dressings and Spices – In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plant-based mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dried dill, and poultry seasoning until well combined. This creates a flavorful and creamy dressing for the salad.
- Combine and Season – Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill and Serve – Refrigerate the salad for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled on its own, with crackers, in a sandwich, or atop a green salad.
Equipment
- mixing bowls
Notes
- To ensure the perfect texture, avoid over-mashing the chickpeas; leaving some whole helps the salad hold its shape. For added flavor, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or a splash of lemon juice. This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with whole-grain crackers, nestled in pita bread, or served atop a bed of mixed greens. For an extra protein boost, add some diced avocado or sprinkle with hemp seeds. Preparing the salad ahead of time enhances the flavors, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 285kcal
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 175mg
- Potassium: 351mg
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 9g
- Vitamin A: 66IU
- Vitamin C: 2.3mg
- Calcium: 93mg
- Iron: 2.1mg
FAQ-Classic Vegan Chickpea Salad
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, making this salad a few hours or even a day in advance helps the flavors develop. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
What can I use instead of chickpeas?
If you don’t have chickpeas, black beans or white beans work well as a substitute, though they’ll give a slightly different texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free plant-based mayo and seasonings.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, feel free to add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
How long will this salad stay fresh in the fridge?
This salad typically stays fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
