Lemon parmesan chickpea salad

Lemon Parmesan Chickpea Salad combines protein-rich chickpeas with zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese for a refreshing meal. This straightforward recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

24 Nov 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp basil
4 tsp olive oil
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley
1 garlic clove
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 dash salt
15 oz chickpeas

Lemon Parmesan Chickpea Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that's perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Finely chop the basil and parsley.
- Mince the garlic clove.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water.

2. Mix the Dressing:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic and lemon juice.
- Slowly whisk in the olive oil to create a smooth emulsion.
- Add a dash of salt and stir well to combine.

3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas.
- Pour the lemon and olive oil dressing over the chickpeas.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and parsley.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together until the chickpeas are well-coated with the dressing and herbs.

4. Final Touches:
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice to your preference.
- Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with additional parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy as a light main dish or a hearty side.

Enjoy your Lemon Parmesan Chickpea Salad as a standalone meal or as a side dish. Its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a versatile addition to any meal plan. Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Lemon parmesan chickpea salad FAQ:

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese in this salad?

For a dairy-free option, you can use nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor, or try a vegan parmesan. Alternatively, feta cheese can be used if you prefer another type of cheese.

How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh as the chickpeas may absorb the dressing over time.

What should I do if my salad is too salty?

If the salad is too salty, you can balance it by adding more chickpeas, fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon juice to help dilute the saltiness.

Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?

Yes, canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to reduce sodium and remove any canning liquid.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this Lemon Parmesan Chickpea Salad is gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the labels of processed foods to be sure.

Tips:

- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you don't have fresh basil or parsley, consider using dried versions but reduce the quantity by half.

- Adjust the lemon juice and salt to taste if you prefer a more or less tangy flavor.

- For added texture and flavor, consider roasting the chickpeas before adding them to the salad. Simply toss them in a little olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until crispy.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or red onion for extra crunch and color.

- If you’re vegan or dairy-free, substitute the parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative or nutritional yeast.

Nutrition per serving

2 Servings
Calories 260kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 10g
Sugar 6g
Fat 18g

Lemon parmesan chickpea salad