Lime and chickpea salad

Lime and chickpea salad is a vibrant dish featuring zesty lime juice, earthy chickpeas, and a hint of cumin. It's fresh, healthy, and perfect for any meal as a light lunch or side.

26 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 garlic clove
2 limes
3 tbsp olive oil
3/4 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp red pepper (spice)
1/2 tsp salt
30 oz chickpeas
1/2 onion
1 tsp coriander leaves

Lime and chickpea salad is a refreshing and zesty dish that combines the citrusy flavor of lime with the earthy taste of chickpeas. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy snack. The addition of cumin and red pepper adds a subtle warmth, while the coriander leaves provide a fresh, herbal note.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic:
- Peel and finely mince the garlic clove. Set aside.

2. Juice the Limes:
- Cut the limes in half and juice them into a small bowl. You should have about 1/4 cup of lime juice.

3. Make the Dressing:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, red pepper, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until all the ingredients are well blended.

4. Prepare the Chickpeas:
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess salt and brine from the can. Let them drain completely.

5. Chop the Onion:
- Finely chop the half onion into small pieces.

6. Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas and the chopped onion. Pour the dressing over the chickpeas and onion mixture.

7. Mix and Serve:
- Stir well to coat the chickpeas and onions evenly with the dressing. Ensure everything is well-mixed and evenly distributed.

8. Garnish:
- Finely chop the coriander leaves and sprinkle them over the salad for a fresh, herby finish.

9. Final Touch:
- Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or red pepper to suit your taste.

10. Serve:
- Serve immediately or let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can be served cool or at room temperature.

Enjoy your lime and chickpea salad as a healthy and flavorful option. It's a versatile dish that works well for various occasions, from family dinners to potluck gatherings. The combination of spices, citrus, and herbs will surely make it a favorite in your recipe collection.

Lime and chickpea salad FAQ:

How long can I store lime and chickpea salad?

You can store lime and chickpea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors will continue to meld over time.

What size of pan do I need for this salad?

A large mixing bowl is ideal for combining the chickpeas, onion, and dressing. A capacity of at least 6-8 cups will allow for easy mixing without spillage.

Can I substitute canned chickpeas with dried chickpeas?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas; however, you’ll need to soak and cook them before using. Generally, 1 cup of dried chickpeas yields about 2.5 cups once cooked.

What if I don't have cilantro for garnish?

If you don't have cilantro (coriander leaves), you can substitute it with parsley for a similar fresh, herbal note.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the salad?

To adjust the spiciness, you can reduce the amount of red pepper used in the dressing. Start with less and taste the salad before adding more to fit your preference.

Tips:

- Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly to remove any canning liquid, which can affect the taste and texture of the salad.

- For extra flavor, consider roasting the chickpeas with a bit of olive oil and salt before adding them to the salad.

- If you prefer a less potent garlic taste, you can roast the garlic clove before mincing it and adding it to the salad.

- Allow the salad to sit for at least 15-20 minutes after preparation to let the flavors meld together.

- Feel free to add other fresh vegetables, such as diced cucumbers, tomatoes, or bell peppers, to enhance the salad's texture and flavor profile.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 4.40g
Fat 10g

Lime and chickpea salad