YUMMY CHICKPEA SALAD

As you know, here at Foodie Babe HQ, we think “veggies rule”.  So, I just had to share this vibrant and delicious vegetarian chickpea salad with you.  It's perfect for a weekday dinner. 

Chickpeas are high in nutrients, and are perfect protein rich food for the whole family. 

A cupful of chickpeas contain the following benefits:

1. Rich source of folate, iron, zinc, protein, manganese and calcium (equivalent to a cup of milk)
2. Strengthens immune system
3. Prevents weakness and anemia
4. Boosts hair growth
5. Improves concentration
6. Acts as a laxative
7. Help build strong bones
8. Good source of polyunsaturated fats

Here's the recipe, I'd love to see your creations, take a pic, post it on instagram and don't forget to tag @foodiebabenz   

YUMMY CHICKPEA SALAD

Makes a side salad for 6 people or main meal for 4 people/Preparation time: 15 minutes + 30 mins-1 hour for marinating/Cooking time: 10 minutes

1 small red onion , chopped finely
2 garlic cloves, crushed

1-2 fresh red chillies , deseeded & finely chopped
2 handfuls ripe colourful tomatoes (red, yellow, orange)
1 lemon
extra virgin olive oil
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
2 410 g tinned chickpeas , drained. 
1 handful fresh mint , finely chopped
1 handful fresh basil , finely chopped
100 g feta cheese

HOW

1. Prepare all the produce: finely slice the red onion and chillies, roughly chop tomatoes, juice the lemon and finely chop the herbs.
2. In a large bowl mix altogether and dress with half the lemon juice and 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large pan heat a tablespoon of olive oil, stir fry the chickpeas in a pan, and add the crushed garlic.  Once heated through, leave to cool for 20 minutes and then mix through with the tomatoes, red onion, chilli etc. 
4. Allow to marinate in the fridge.
5. Remove from fridge 20-30 minutes before you want to serve up.
6. Toss through the fresh mint and basil.
7. Add the juice from the other lemon half.
8. Place in a lovely salad bowl, roughly crumble the feta cheese and enjoy.

Happy healthy eating!