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NEXT MAIN MENU PREVIOUS All Things Delicious Chickpea Salad Homer Simpson might have teased his vegetarian daughter that you don’t make friends with salad but I disagree, especially in the summertime when fresh vegetables are abundant and the idea of turning on the oven is repellent. (Also, have you seen the guys Homer hangs out with? Maybe it is best to heed his advice and make salad anyway to boost the caliber of your associates.) The next time you are invited to a potluck, make this chickpea salad and see if it doesn’t win you over some friends or at least some admirers. This recipe is highly adaptable to any combination of veggies and added items you like: I think sun-dried tomatoes, toasted pine nuts and fresh basil would be delicious. Combining buttery chickpeas with its close friend, a lemon-y tahini dressing, and crunchy, flavorful veggies along fresh herbs, you’ve got a colorful, nutrient-dense salad that is perfect for a light lunch, side dish or a potluck offering. This is also great nestled in tortillas with avocado, hot sauce and romaine lettuce. While this can be eaten right away, it is best to refrigerate a couple of hours to serve ones the flavors have combined well. Once your chopping is done, this is a very easy dish to prepare. By the way, using the reserved chickpea water is not essential – you can use regular ol’ water – but as we have learned in recent weeks, aquafaba has a way of adding an extra delicious dimension of magic to many dishes, sweet or savory. All Things Delicious Chickpea Salad 30 oz. chickpeas, drained and rinsed (reserve at least 8 tablespoons water) The rest: It is up to you, but I added diced celery, red bell pepper, seeded jalapenos, kalamata olives, red onion, fresh dill and parsley Dressing ½ cup tahini 2 – 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 8 tablespoons reserved water from the chickpeas 3 cloves garlic, pressed 1 teaspoon cumin 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne In a large bowl, combine your chickpeas with your veggies, herbs and additions of choice. In a glass or bowl, mix together the dressing ingredients until fully combined. Toss with the chickpeas and veggies, refrigerate for a couple of hours, then enjoy.    © 2015, Vegan Street