Ingredients
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and dried
1 tbsp olive oil (for chickpeas)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup instant couscous
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
1 cup English cucumber, diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, but recommended)
Juice of 1-2 lemons (to taste)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for dressing)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Drain and rinse chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them very dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, toss dried chickpeas with 1 tablespoon olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: While chickpeas roast, bring vegetable broth (or water) to a boil in a medium saucepan.
Step 6: Remove from heat, stir in couscous, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
Step 7: After 5 minutes, remove lid and fluff couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
Step 8: In a large mixing bowl, combine fluffy couscous, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta (if using).
Step 9: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, chopped parsley, chopped mint, dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste for the dressing.
Step 10: Pour the dressing over the couscous mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
Step 11: Carefully fold in the crispy roasted chickpeas just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Step 12: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
Notes
For best results, make sure your chickpeas are very dry before roasting for maximum crispiness. The salad tastes great immediately but also holds up well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prepping. Store the crispy chickpeas separately and add just before serving for ultimate crunch, or toast them fresh each day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg