Quick & Easy Spicy Chickpea Couscous Salad (Vegan & Dairy-Free)

il y a 3 semaines

Looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that comes together in a flash? This Spicy Chickpea Couscous Salad is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a light and satisfying lunch, this plant-based dish proves that "wow" moments in the kitchen don't require endless effort. As one happy commenter exclaimed, "Yum!" – and we couldn't agree more.

This recipe solves the common dilemma of wanting something delicious and healthy without spending hours cooking. It's a fantastic option for anyone embracing a vegan or dairy-free lifestyle, and its simple ingredients make it budget-friendly too. Get ready to transform humble chickpeas and couscous into a dazzling and delightful meal!

Vibrant Spicy Chickpea Couscous Salad with roasted vegetables and lemon wedge

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This isn't just another salad; it's a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. The secret lies in the roasted chickpeas and peppers, infused with aromatic Za'atar, combined with a zesty lemon drizzle and a chili-spiced tomato relish that brings a fantastic kick. It’s a complete meal that's both hearty and refreshing, promising a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

1 can (approx. 400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1-2 bell peppers, any color, deseeded and chopped
1-2 tablespoons Za'atar spice blend
1-2 large tomatoes, diced
1 cup dry couscous (or quantity as per package instructions)
1 fresh lemon
1 tablespoon Papas Plant Based Foods Chilli Tomato Relish (or your favorite spicy tomato relish)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1-2 tablespoons water (for thinning relish)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Small bowl for dressing
Saucepan for couscous
Sharp knife and cutting board

Instructions

Roast Chickpeas & Peppers: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). On a baking sheet, toss the drained chickpeas and chopped bell peppers with Za'atar spice blend and a drizzle of olive oil. Roast for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chickpeas are slightly crispy and peppers are tender-crisp.
Prepare Couscous: While the vegetables roast, prepare your couscous according to package instructions. Usually, this involves adding boiling water or vegetable broth and letting it sit for a few minutes until fluffy.
Dice Tomatoes: Cut your tomatoes into small, even pieces.
Make the Relish Drizzle: In a small bowl, combine the Papas Plant Based Foods Chilli Tomato Relish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a tiny bit of water. Whisk until it reaches a thin, drizzle consistency.
Assemble the Salad: Once the roasted chickpeas and peppers are done, combine them in a large mixing bowl with the prepared couscous and diced tomatoes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, tangy note.
Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the spicy tomato relish mixture generously over the salad. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Spicy Chickpea Couscous Salad in a white bowl with a spoon

Variations and Adaptations

Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using quinoa or rice instead of couscous. Both are excellent alternatives that will absorb the flavors beautifully.
Add Greens: For extra nutrients and crunch, toss in a handful of fresh spinach or arugula just before serving.
Protein Boost: Add pan-fried tofu cubes or crumbled tempeh for an extra protein punch.
Spice It Up (or Down): Adjust the amount of chili tomato relish to suit your preferred spice level. A pinch of red pepper flakes with the roasting vegetables can also add more heat.
Herbal Twist: Garnish with fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for an added layer of flavor.

Tips & Hacks

Meal Prep Friendly: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Pack individual portions for quick lunches throughout the week.
Custom Spice Blend: If you don't have Za'atar, you can create your own blend with cumin, coriander, thyme, and sesame seeds.
Lemon Zest: For an even brighter lemon flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest along with the juice.
Serving Temperature: While delicious warm, this salad is also fantastic served chilled, making it perfect for summer picnics or a refreshing desk lunch.

Give this vibrant salad a try and discover how incredibly simple and satisfying plant-based cooking can be! Share your spicy couscous salad creations with us on abillion!