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Let’s dive into the ingredients that bring this salad to life. Each component plays an essential role in creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

Crunchy Zesty Chickpea Salad

Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this Crunchy Zesty Chickpea Salad is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Inspired by my first encounter at a farmers' market, this wholesome dish combines protein-rich chickpeas, refreshing cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado, all drizzled with a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or hearty snack, this salad celebrates nutritious ingredients and is easy to customize. Enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that’s as good for the body as it is for the taste buds!
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Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed thoroughly

1 large cucumber, peeled and diced into small cubes

1 bell pepper (choose either red or yellow), diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 ripe avocado, diced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for added creaminess)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Juice of 2 fresh limes

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds (for delightful crunch)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas with the diced cucumber, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado. Using a gentle folding motion, toss the ingredients to combine them evenly without mashing the avocado.

    In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

      Drizzle the dressing over the chickpea mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss to ensure that all the ingredients are coated with the dressing, enhancing the flavors throughout.

        Add the finely chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese (if using) to the salad, and mix lightly to incorporate these fresh herbs and cheese without breaking up the avocado.

          Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted sunflower seeds generously on top for an extra layer of crunch that complements the salad's textures.

            Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference for brightness.

              Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the perfect refreshing dish. Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious Crunchy Zesty Chickpea Salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | Serves 4