🥗 Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Mediterranean Style
Ingredients
Salad
2 cups cooked chickpeas (rinsed & drained)
⅓ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if possible)
⅓ cup walnuts, lightly toasted & chopped
½ small red onion, finely diced
½ cup celery, finely chopped (optional crunch)
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional but lovely)
Optional Add-Ins
½ cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup baby arugula or spinach
🍊 Orange Vinaigrette
Zest of 1 orange
¼ cup fresh orange juice
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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
