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Thai Chickpea Salad Recipe

4.4 from 140 reviews

This Thai Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crisp vegetables, protein-packed chickpeas, and a tangy, savory dressing infused with traditional Thai flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or a flavorful side, it offers a delightful mix of textures and a balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and nutty notes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ¼ cup peanuts, roughly chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the Vegetables and Chickpeas: In a large bowl, toss together the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced red bell pepper, cucumber, shredded carrots, red cabbage, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and chopped peanuts. Mix gently to combine the vibrant colors and textures.
  2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fresh lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Ensure the dressing is well combined to blend the flavors thoroughly.
  3. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mix. Using a spatula or tongs, gently toss everything together so each vegetable and chickpea is evenly coated with the zesty dressing.
  4. Let It Rest: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and intensify, enhancing the overall taste.
  5. Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for a crisp and fresh texture, or refrigerate it for up to an hour if you prefer a chilled salad. Enjoy as a quick lunch or a vibrant side dish.

Notes

  • For extra protein, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad.
  • If you prefer a different crunch, substitute peanuts with cashews or sunflower seeds.
  • The salad tastes great fresh but can be chilled for up to one hour before serving.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level.

Keywords: Thai Chickpea Salad, vegan salad, quick lunch, healthy salad, chickpea recipe, Thai dressing, peanut salad, gluten free salad