Looking for a refreshing, high fiber, and healthy salad try this Chickpea Pomegranate Apple Crunch Salad with Pecans.
This Refreshing Chickpea & Pomegranate Salad is a simple, healthy dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
With the sweetness of pomegranate and the crunch of pecans, it pairs beautifully with seasonal fruits like apples and pears.
The ingredients come together in minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days, fall gatherings, or potlucks. Not only is refreshing and crunchy, but it’s also a light, nutritious snack that’s satisfying and packed with fiber and protein.
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Why I Love This Recipe
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility and ease of preparation.
It’s one of those salad dishes you can throw together without much effort, yet it looks and tastes impressive every time.
Combining crisp vegetables, chickpeas, and crunchy pecans creates the perfect balance of textures. The pomegranate adds a sweetness that makes it feel festive and special, while the balsamic vinaigrette gives it a tangy finish that ties everything together beautifully.
It’s one of those recipes that’s always a hit!
Ingredients
- 4 cups chopped iceberg lettuce
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (red or white)
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1 medium apple, diced (preferably a crisp variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2- Combine the Salad Ingredients:
- In a large salad bowl, add chopped iceberg lettuce, chickpeas, chopped cucumber, chopped onion, diced apple, pomegranate seeds, and chopped pecans.
3- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4- Serve:
- Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or light main course.
Chef’s Notes
— The addition of diced apple adds a sweet crunch that complements the savory chickpeas and the tartness of pomegranate seeds.
— Consider adding diced avocado for creaminess or crumbled feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
— Toasting the pecans in a dry skillet or air fryer for a few minutes can enhance their flavor and add crunch.
— You can substitute other greens like spinach or arugula for a different base.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 250 calories
How can I make this salad more substantial for a main course?
o make the Fresh Chickpea and Pomegranate Salad with Apple more substantial for a main course, consider adding the following ingredients:
Protein Additions
1- Sliced grilled chicken breast or turkey can add lean protein and make the salad more filling.
2- Grilled or sautéed shrimp can provide a delicious seafood option that complements the salad’s flavors.
3- For a vegetarian or vegan option, add cubed and marinated tofu or tempeh, either grilled or sautéed.
Whole Grains
4- dd cooked quinoa for a nutritious grain that enhances the salad’s texture and boosts protein content.
5- These hearty grains can add chewiness and make the salad more filling.
Additional Vegetables
6- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Diced and roasted sweet potatoes add warmth and a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
7- Avocado: Adding diced avocado provides healthy fats and creaminess, making the salad more satisfying.
Cheese Options
8- Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumbled feta or goat cheese can add creaminess and tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Nuts and Seeds
9- Pumpkin Seeds or Sunflower Seeds: Tossing in some seeds can provide extra crunch and healthy fats, making the salad more substantial.
