Are you craving a quick, healthy, and insanely delicious dish that will transport your senses straight to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coastline? Look no further than this Amazing Creamy Garbanzo Bean Salad – a recipe so simple yet so extraordinary that it will revolutionize your lunch and side dish game! Packed with protein, bursting with fresh flavors, and ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced cucumber
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the canned garbanzo beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Pat the garbanzo beans dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure the salad doesn't become watery.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained garbanzo beans, Greek yogurt, diced red onion, and diced cucumber.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture to add brightness and help balance the creamy yogurt.
- Season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your personal taste preference.
- Gently fold all ingredients together, ensuring the beans and vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy yogurt dressing.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chill the salad.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or light lunch, garnished with optional fresh herbs like chopped parsley or mint.
Tips
- Drainage is Key: Always thoroughly drain and rinse canned garbanzo beans to remove excess sodium and improve their texture. Pat them completely dry to prevent a watery salad.
- Fresh is Best: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Bottled lemon juice simply can't compare.
- Chill for Flavor Fusion: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to mingle and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to add extra herbs like mint or parsley, or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese for an extra Mediterranean twist.
- Texture Matters: Dice your red onion and cucumber uniformly to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Serve Cold: This salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for picnics, potlucks, or quick weekday lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 334kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
