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A colorful, healthy veg salad with chana as its base, presented in a large bowl.

Hearty & Vibrant Healthy Veg Salad | Chana Salad

This vibrant Chana Salad is packed with protein and fresh vegetables, offering a healthy and satisfying meal. It's easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite spices.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:
  • 1 can chickpeas (chana) 15-ounce, rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium cucumber finely diced
  • 1 large tomato deseeded and diced
  • 1/2 red onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 red bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/2 yellow bell pepper finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • asafoetida (hing) Pinch, optional
  • 1 green chili finely chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Prepare the Salad
  1. Rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water, then drain them well.
  2. Finely dice the cucumber, deseeded tomato, red onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed chickpeas, diced vegetables, fresh cilantro, and chopped mint (if using).
Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, black pepper, red chili powder, salt, asafoetida (if using), and chopped green chili (if using) until well combined.
Combine and Serve
  1. Pour the prepared dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
  2. Gently but thoroughly toss the salad, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
  3. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili powder or green chili. Feel free to add other vegetables like grated carrots or corn for more variety.