Crispy Chickpea and Avocado Salad

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Ingredients:

• For the crispy chickpeas:

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• For the salad:

  • 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or your choice)

  • 1 large avocado, diced

  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced

  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

• For the dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crispy Chickpeas:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Spread them out on a baking sheet.

   • Drizzle the olive oil over the chickpeas, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

   • Bake for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the chickpeas are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.

2. Make the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, avocado, cucumber, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to combine.

   • If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad.

3. Prepare the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Salad:

   • Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

   • Top with the crispy chickpeas just before serving for the best crunch.

Tips:

• For extra protein, add grilled chicken or chickpea-based protein.

• If you prefer a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the chickpeas before baking.

• This salad is best served fresh, but the crispy chickpeas can be stored separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your healthy, satisfying salad!