A Christmas dish that’s bright, crunchy, and ready in minutes? This festive chickpea salad checks every box. It’s colorful, refreshing, and full of textures that fit perfectly on any holiday table. Whether you need a quick side for dinner or a lighter option between heavier meals, this salad brings the holiday vibes without the extra work.
Gather Your Festive Ingredients
A great salad starts with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Chickpeas bring heartiness, while crisp vegetables and crunchy add-ins make it feel like a Christmas party in every bite.
You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Make the Zesty Holiday Dressing
This bright, tangy dressing ties everything together. It’s simple, well-balanced, and perfect for giving chickpeas a flavorful boost.
How to Make It:
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, honey/maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic in a small bowl or jar.
- Whisk or shake until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust—add lemon for more brightness or honey for extra sweetness.
Pro Tip:
Let the dressing rest for 5 minutes so the garlic softens and the flavors blend beautifully.
Bring the Salad Together
Now for the fun part—mixing everything into one colorful, crunchy bowl.
Steps:
- Add chickpeas to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the red pepper, cucumber, onion, parsley, cranberries, and nuts.
- Pour the dressing over the top.
- Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Crumbled feta for creamy richness
- Pomegranate seeds for extra sparkle
- Roasted sweet potato cubes for warmth
Serve and Enjoy the Festive Crunch
This salad is delicious right away but gets even better after 20–30 minutes as the flavors blend. It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, Christmas casseroles, or even as a light lunch on its own.
Final Takeaway
If you want a fresh, colorful side dish for your holiday menu, this Christmas Chickpea Salad is an easy win. Save this recipe for later and add it to your festive cooking lineup!
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