Low Point Chickpea Salad

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🥗 Low Point Chickpea Salad

Description

This Low Point Chickpea Salad is a fresh, protein-packed, and fiber-rich dish that’s perfect for anyone following a low-calorie or point-based eating plan (like Weight Watchers). It’s light yet filling, bursting with crunchy vegetables, bright lemon flavor, and simple pantry spices—no cooking required!

🕒 Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 10–15 minutes

  • Cook Time: None

  • Total Time: 15 minutes

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4

  • Serving Size: ~1 cup per serving

🧾 Ingredients

  • 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, add the chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

  3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  5. Chill for 10–20 minutes for best flavor, or serve immediately.

💡 Notes

  • Rinsing chickpeas thoroughly reduces sodium and improves digestion.

  • The salad tastes even better after resting as flavors meld together.

  • Naturally gluten-free and vegan.

🌟 Tips & Variations

  • Extra crunch: Add diced bell peppers or celery

  • More protein: Toss in grilled chicken, tuna, or feta (adds points)

  • Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or paprika

  • Meal prep friendly: Stores well up to 4 days in the fridge

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 150

  • Protein: 6g

  • Carbohydrates: 22g

  • Fiber: 6g

  • Fat: 4g

  • Sugar: 3g

  • Sodium: ~220 mg

👉 Weight Watchers Points: ~1–2 points per serving (depending on plan and oil measurement)

✅ Health Benefits

  • High in fiber – supports digestion and fullness

  • Plant-based protein – helps maintain muscle and energy

  • Heart-healthy – low in saturated fat

  • Weight-loss friendly – low calorie, high volume

  • Anti-inflammatory ingredients – thanks to lemon, parsley, and cumin

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep and keeps well for 3–4 days refrigerated.

Q: Can I skip the olive oil to make it zero-point?
A: Absolutely. Replace olive oil with extra lemon juice or a splash of vinegar.

Q: Is this salad good for diabetics?
A: Yes—chickpeas have a low glycemic index and are rich in fiber.

Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Yes, just cook them fully and let them cool before using.

Q: What can I serve this with?
A: Great as a side dish, stuffed in lettuce wraps, or served over mixed greens.

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