Crispy Chickpea And Kale Salad With Tahini Dressing Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal that feels both indulgent and healthy. The crispy chickpeas add a delightful crunch, and the creamy tahini dressing completely elevates the kale, making it irresistible and Instagram-worthy every time!

The textures and flavors of my Crispy Chickpea and Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing are not to be matched. Nothing else comes close, and why would it?

Love the pairing of crunchy, seasoned-with-smoked-paprika-and-garlic-powder chickpeas and nutrient-rich, barely-massaged kale. A tahini dressing, rich in umami and creaminess yet brightened with lemon juice, pulls the whole dish together with effortless style.

It’s a healthy, tasty meal option that works as a light lunch, a side dish, or dinner.

Ingredients

Chickpeas:
They supply an abundance of protein and fiber.

Their crunch is so hearty that they could just as well be called “crunchies.

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Olive Oil:
Provides a delicious source of healthy fats that enhances the flavor and increases the satisfaction of every bite.

Smoked Paprika:
Contributes a warm, smoky depth to the chickpeas.

Kale:
A nutritious green, it is high in vitamins A, C, and K.

Tahini:
Sesame seeds are the source of this ingredient.

They confer a nice creaminess and a deeply rich flavor.

Lemon Juice:
Offers a unique flavor that complements the dressing.

Maple Syrup:
Adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cups kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) before starting. When it reaches the right temperature, add chickpeas, which you’ve drained and rinsed, to a baking sheet. Line that baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chickpeas and dust with smoked paprika, garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss everything together so that it is evenly coated and ready for roasting.

3. Chickpeas should be roasted in the oven for 20-25 minutes, with stirring halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown. They should be removed from the oven and set aside to cool.

4. In a large bowl, work the chopped kale with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for about 3 minutes until the leaves are softened slightly.

5. Make the tahini dressing by mixing tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Use a whisk to get everything combined and make it smooth. If your tahini dressing is too thick, add some more water, a teaspoon at a time, until it’s at the desired consistency.

6. If needed, adjust the flavors and season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Drizzle the tahini dressing over the massaged kale and toss gently to coat the leaves thoroughly.

8. Move the kale salad, now dressed, to a bowl or serving platter.

9. Evenly distribute the crispy chickpeas over the top of the kale salad.

10. Serve the salad promptly as a delightful side or a main course. Relish in the enjoyment of your Crispy Chickpea and Kale Salad with Tahini Dressing!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Measuring spoons
5. Large bowl
6. Small bowl
7. Whisk
8. Spoon or spatula for tossing
9. Serving bowl or platter

FAQ

• What can I substitute for tahini if I don’t have any?In the dressing, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can serve as a stand-in for tahini.
• How do I make the kale tender for the salad?Work the chopped kale with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until the leaves soften and become more palatable.
• Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and cook until tender before roasting.
• What can be added for extra crunch?Adding roasted nuts or seeds, like almonds or sunflower seeds, provides an extra crunch.
• Can this salad be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crisps.
• Is this salad suitable for vegans?Yes, this salad is suitable for vegans since all its components are derived from plants.
• How can I make the chickpeas extra crispy?Make certain the chickpeas are thoroughly drained and dried before the roasting process. Roast them longer, if necessary, to reach your desired level of crispiness.

Substitutions and Variations

Chickpeas: For 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, use 1 can (15 oz) of white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed.
Substitute avocado oil or grapeseed oil for olive oil.
Smoked Paprika: Use ordinary paprika and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Honey or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for maple syrup.
Sunflower seed butter or almond butter can serve as replacements for tahini.

Pro Tips

1. Dry the Chickpeas Thoroughly After draining and rinsing the chickpeas, make sure to dry them thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve maximum crispiness during roasting.

2. Massage the Kale Properly When massaging the kale with the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, use your hands to rub the leaves well. This breaks down the fibers and makes the kale more tender and less bitter.

3. Layer Flavors with Smoked Paprika Consider adding a pinch more smoked paprika to the chickpeas just before serving for an extra smoky kick that complements the creamy tahini dressing.

4. Adjust Dressing Consistency Carefully When preparing the tahini dressing, remember it can thicken upon standing. Add water incrementally to reach the perfect smooth, pourable consistency.

5. Add a Crunchy Element For extra texture, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts or seeds, such as sunflower seeds or almonds, over the salad before serving. This adds another layer of crunch and flavor.