🥗 Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Mediterranean Style
Ingredients
Salad
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2 cups cooked chickpeas (rinsed & drained)
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⅓ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if possible)
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⅓ cup walnuts, lightly toasted & chopped
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½ small red onion, finely diced
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½ cup celery, finely chopped (optional crunch)
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional but lovely)
Optional Add-Ins
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½ cup cucumber, diced
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¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
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½ cup baby arugula or spinach
🍊 Orange Vinaigrette
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Zest of 1 orange
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¼ cup fresh orange juice
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3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
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Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Make the Vinaigrette
In a small bowl or jar, whisk orange zest, orange juice, olive oil, vinegar, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. -
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cranberries, walnuts, red onion, celery, parsley, and mint. -
Dress & Toss
Pour vinaigrette over salad and toss gently to coat. -
Rest for Flavor
Let sit 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. -
Finish & Serve
Add feta, greens, or cucumber if using. Adjust seasoning and serve.
🌿 Why This Fits the Mediterranean Diet
✔ Plant-based protein & fiber
✔ Heart-healthy fats from olive oil & walnuts
✔ Naturally sweetened with citrus & cranberries
✔ Fresh herbs for antioxidants
