Name: Chickpea Caprese Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1½ to 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes (halved); 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls or small cubes; ½ small red onion (thinly sliced); ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (torn); 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 to 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or glaze; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Discover a refreshing and protein-packed twist on the classic Caprese salad that brings together hearty chickpeas with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This vibrant salad bursts with color and flavor, making it a perfect dish for warm weather or any time you crave a light yet satisfying meal.

Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a light lunch, side dish, or picnic staple, this Chickpea Caprese Salad combines the best of fresh ingredients with a tangy, zesty dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas, making it both nourishing and filling.
The fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture that balances the bright acidity of tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.
Quick to assemble with simple ingredients, perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Customizable with optional add-ins like cucumbers or roasted peppers for variety and extra flavor.

Ingredients

Cooked Chickpeas: 2 cups of canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed well to remove excess salt and keep flavors fresh and vibrant.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: 1½ to 2 cups, halved to release their juicy sweetness and add a fresh burst of color.
Fresh Mozzarella Pearls: 1 cup of small mozzarella balls or cubes providing a creamy, milky richness that melts into the salad.
Red Onion: Half of a small red onion, thinly sliced to add a crisp texture and sharp, slightly sweet bite.
Fresh Basil Leaves: A quarter cup torn by hand to infuse the salad with a fragrant herbal note.
Olive Oil: 2 to 3 tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, adding smoothness and healthy fats.
Balsamic Vinegar or Glaze: 1 to 2 tablespoons, contributing tangy sweetness and depth to the dressing.
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (optional) to give the dressing a subtle tang and help emulsify the mixture.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the salad.

Instructions

Combine Chickpeas and Fresh Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the well-rinsed cooked chickpeas along with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella pearls, and thinly sliced red onion. This medley delivers a variety of textures from hearty legumes to juicy, tender vegetables.
Prepare the Zesty Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar or glaze, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisking vigorously emulsifies the dressing, creating a well-blended sauce that will evenly coat the ingredients and bring out their flavors.
Toss the Salad to Coat: Pour the prepared dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure each component is lightly coated with the tangy, flavorful dressing while maintaining the fresh textures.
Add Fresh Basil and Final Mix: Carefully tuck torn basil leaves into the salad and give it a final gentle toss. Adding basil last preserves its delicate aroma and vibrant color, elevating the salad’s sensory appeal before serving.
Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature: This salad shines when served chilled to refresh your palate, but it’s equally delicious at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Ideal for immediate serving or make-ahead meals.

You Must Know

Always rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly to remove the canning liquid that can dull the salad’s brightness.
Fresh mozzarella is essential for the creamy, milky texture; avoid pre-shredded varieties to maintain salad quality.
Optional add-ins like cucumbers, olives, or roasted peppers can add exciting layers of taste and crunch.

Storage Tips

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing separate if preparing in advance to prevent sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy as a light lunch on its own, pair it with grilled bread or protein for a heartier meal, or serve alongside grilled chicken or seafood as a vibrant side dish. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or casual gatherings.

Professional Tips

Use room temperature mozzarella pearls for better flavor release in the salad.
Tear basil leaves by hand rather than chopping to avoid bruising and bitterness.
Adjust balsamic vinegar quantity depending on your desired sweetness and acidity balance.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?: Yes, just soak and cook them until tender. Using cooked-from-scratch chickpeas improves texture and flavor but requires more preparation time.
What can I substitute for fresh mozzarella?: Firm ricotta or mild feta cheese can work as alternatives offering creaminess with different flavor profiles.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely! Store components separately and combine just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Can I make this salad vegan?: Yes! Simply replace mozzarella with plant-based cheese or omit it entirely and enhance texture with extra veggies or nuts.
How can I add more flavor?: Consider adding roasted peppers, olives, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to introduce additional layers of taste and complexity.
Should I peel the chickpeas?: It’s not necessary, but removing skins can create a smoother texture. Most people prefer them unpeeled for added fiber.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?: Fresh basil is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor and aroma; dried basil doesn’t provide the same freshness in this salad.