Crunchy Thai Chickpea Salad!

🥢 Crunchy Thai Chickpea Salad

🕒 Total Time: 15 minutes

🍽️ Serves: 4

🧂 Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) chickpeas — drained and rinsed

• 1 cup shredded or julienned carrots

• 1 cup shredded red (purple) cabbage (optional but colorful)

• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (or parsley)

• ¼ cup slivered almonds or chopped peanuts (optional for crunch)

• ½ cup bean sprouts or julienned cucumber (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 ½ tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

• 1 clove garlic — minced

• 1–2 tbsp warm water (to thin the dressing as needed)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the salad base:
   In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, carrots, red onion, cilantro, and any optional veggies or nuts you’re using.

2. Make the dressing:
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, peanut butter, honey, ginger, and garlic.
   Add a splash of warm water to loosen it until it’s smooth and pourable.

3. Combine and toss:
   Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

4. Chill and serve:
   Let it rest in the fridge for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
   Garnish with extra herbs or nuts before serving.

🌿 Optional Add-ins

• Diced bell pepper or cucumber

• Edamame or shredded chicken (for protein)

• Chili flakes or sriracha (for spice)

• Fresh lime wedges on the side

🧠 Tips & Q/A

❓Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes — store the salad (without dressing) and the dressing separately. Combine just before serving to keep it crunchy.

❓Q2: What if I don’t like peanut butter?

A: Use tahini or almond butter, or skip nut butter entirely and double the sesame oil for a nut-free version.

❓Q3: How long does it last?

A: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It even tastes better the next day!

❓Q4: Can I serve it warm?

A: Definitely! Warm the chickpeas slightly before tossing with the dressing for a cozy version.