Let’s get something out of the way before I write this entire cherry and chickpea salad post: Do you call them chickpeas or garbanzo beans? I grew up in Southern California, where garbanzo beans are very popular to eat, especially in salads or ground up to make hummus. But when I moved to Tennessee, they looked at me cross-eyed when I used the word. I have been informed that they are chickpeas.
Fine. Whatever you want to call them, they are delicious and packed full of protein, especially in this warm cherry and chickpea salad. (Hey! When in Rome…)
Meet the Versatile and Health Cherry and Chickpea Salad
So this cherry and chickpea salad is an awesome side dish because it goes with nearly any kind of protein. I have served it with steak, pork, chicken, and even fish.
It also features my favorite fruit: cherries!
Just be sure to have a handy dandy cherry-pitter or your hands will turn red in the mess and you’ll hate me forever. I love my OXO one! Even my 4-year-old can use it!
Ingredients for the Cherry and Chickpea Salad
Before you start assembling this dish, gather all the fresh and flavorful ingredients to make your prep easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pouches of precooked Uncle Ben’s brown rice
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2-3 cups of pitted fresh cherries (about 30)
- 15 oz can drained chickpeas
With these simple ingredients in hand, you’re ready to craft a vibrant and satisfying cherry and chickpea salad.
Ingredients for the Dressing
To tie everything together, you’ll whip up a light and tangy dressing. The best part? You probably already have these staples in your pantry:
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Once the dressing is ready, it’s time to mix it into your cherry and chickpea salad for a delicious finishing touch.
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by taking your prepped ingredients and mixing them in a large bowl. Pour the tangy dressing over the rice mixture, ensuring it evenly coats every bite. Gently toss everything together so the flavors blend beautifully. This step is where the magic begins, laying the flavorful foundation of your cherry and chickpea salad.
Step 2: Add Goat Cheese for Creaminess
To elevate the texture and taste, crumble 2 to 3 ounces of creamy goat cheese over the salad. The goat cheese adds a rich, velvety element that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cherries and the earthiness of chickpeas. Make sure to give it a light toss so the cheese is evenly distributed, enhancing every forkful of this vibrant dish.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
This cherry and chickpea salad is delicious whether served warm or chilled. If your rice is still warm and the goat cheese melts slightly, it’s the perfect time to pair it with your main dish. I’ve enjoyed this salad alongside flavorful meals like oven-baked salmon topped with tartar sauce, tender ribs rubbed with a zesty spice mix, and even quick one-pan lemon parmesan chicken. It’s a versatile side dish that complements a variety of entrees beautifully!
A Perfect Dish for Meal Prep
Another reason I like this cherry and chickpea salad is because it is great for meal prep. I pack my husband’s lunches each day, so making a healthy side dish like this works well. It saves me a lot of time and money, plus my hubby gets something flavorful and nutritious!
Let me know if you try this recipe and what you think of it! Happy cooking, y’all!
