Go Back
–+ servings
A dish is served in a bowl

Chana Salad

Chana salad is a healthy dish made from chickpeas and mixed vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers. Seasoned with spices and dressings, it’s rich in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option for snacks or light meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Indian
Servings 3 People
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Cup Chickpeas (cooked)
  • 1 Onion small, chopped
  • 1 Tomato small, chopped
  • 1 Cucumber small, chopped
  • Coriander Leaves A handful, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • Salt To taste
  • 1 teaspoon Chaat Masala (optional)
  • 1 Green Chili finely chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparing the Chickpeas

  • Soaking Dried Chickpeas: The night before, soak dried chickpeas in plenty of water. This helps them soften and cook faster.
  • Cooking: The next day, drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Cook them in a pot of water for about 45 minutes, or until they’re soft. Alternatively, use a pressure cooker to speed up the process!
  • Quick Option (Canned Chickpeas): If you're in a hurry, you can use canned chickpeas. Just rinse and drain them before using.
  • Fun Fact: Soaking chickpeas overnight is like letting them recharge!

Chopping Veggies

  • Cucumbers, Tomatoes, and Onions: Firstly, slice the veggies into small, uniform pieces to achieve an even texture.
  • Why Uniform Sizes Matter: In essence, this ensures that every bite contains a perfect mix of chickpeas and veggies, creating an ideal balance of flavors!
  • Tip: To clarify, think of cutting puzzle pieces—uniformly sized pieces fit together more easily!

Assembly and Mixing

  • First Layer: Start by adding the chickpeas to a large bowl.
  • Add Veggies: Toss in your chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
  • Seasoning: Drizzle with olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like (e.g., cumin or chat masala for extra flavor!).
  • Tossing: Mix everything gently, so all ingredients are coated in the dressing. Tossing is like a dance party for your salad!
  • Tip: The more you mix, the more flavor you get in every bite!

How to Customize

  • Add Extra Veggies: Want more crunch? Toss in some bell peppers or carrots.
  • Extra Protein: Add paneer, tofu, or even grilled chicken for extra protein.
  • Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or jalapeños if you like it hot!
  • Tip: Think of it as decorating a pizza—add whatever you love!

Notes

Different Variations of Chana Salad

1. Chana Salad with Grilled Chicken: Not only does adding grilled chicken, tofu, or paneer make it heartier, but it also boosts the protein content!
2. Indian-Style Chana Salad: For example, adding chaat masala, cumin, and tamarind chutney brings a tangy, flavorful twist!
3. Mediterranean-Inspired Chana Salad: Similarly, mix in cucumber, feta cheese, olives, and oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing burst!
4. Chickpea & Avocado Salad: In this case, toss in avocado for a creamy, filling salad with healthy fats and a smooth texture! 

Tips for Making the Perfect Chana Salad 

1. Preventing a Watery Salad: As a result, drain chickpeas and veggies well before mixing to keep your salad crunchy and fresh. No sooner do you do this than you'll have a perfect, non-soggy salad!
2. Choosing the Right Chickpeas: If you're in a hurry, canned chickpeas are a great option. On the other hand, if you have more time, opt for dried chickpeas. Be sure to soak and cook them properly for the best texture!
3. Balancing Flavors: To illustrate, balance the sourness of lemon, the sweetness of honey, the saltiness of salt, and the spiciness of chili for the perfect harmony. Moreover, adding a pinch of sugar will help offset the tangy lemon or tamarind, creating a balanced taste! 

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Chana Salad
Amount per Serving
Calories
130
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
2
g
3
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.5
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
1
g
Sodium
 
200
mg
9
%
Potassium
 
300
mg
9
%
Carbohydrates
 
20
g
7
%
Fiber
 
6
g
25
%
Sugar
 
3
g
3
%
Protein
 
6
g
12
%
Vitamin A
 
500
IU
10
%
Vitamin B1
 
0.1
mg
7
%
Vitamin B2
 
0.1
mg
6
%
Vitamin B3
 
1.5
mg
8
%
Vitamin B5
 
0.3
mg
3
%
Vitamin B6
 
0.1
mg
5
%
Vitamin C
 
10
mg
12
%
Vitamin E
 
0.5
mg
3
%
Vitamin K
 
15
µg
14
%
Calcium
 
40
mg
4
%
Iron
 
2
mg
11
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!