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Curried Chickpea Quinoa Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 12 reviews

A vibrant and nutritious Curried Chickpea Quinoa Salad combining protein-packed quinoa and chickpeas with crunchy vegetables and a flavorful tahini curry dressing. Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Grains

  • 1 cup rinsed quinoa
  • 2 cups water or 1 cup water and 1 cup vegetable broth

Salad Mix

  • 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (1.5 cups, 255 g)
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries (35 g)
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeds removed and diced
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and finely grated
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onion (40 g)

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup tahini (60 g)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (30 mL)
  • 2 tsp madras curry powder
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup (30 mL)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Quinoa: Bring the water (and vegetable broth, if using) to a boil in a medium saucepan. While waiting, rinse the quinoa well under cold water to remove any bitterness. Add the rinsed quinoa to the boiling liquid. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer lightly for 15 minutes.
  2. Let Quinoa Rest: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, allowing the quinoa to steam and become fluffy. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa gently with a fork.
  3. Prepare Salad Mix: While the quinoa cooks, combine the chickpeas, dried cranberries, diced green bell pepper, grated carrot, and thinly sliced green onions in a large mixing or serving bowl. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, madras curry powder, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
  5. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl, then add the fluffed quinoa. Mix everything well to evenly distribute the flavors.
  6. Season and Serve: Taste the salad and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a refreshing cold salad.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa before cooking helps remove its natural bitterness.
  • You can substitute the madras curry powder with another mild curry powder if preferred.
  • For added crunch, consider topping the salad with toasted nuts or seeds.
  • This salad can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for meals year-round.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian