One of my favorite Chefs whose recipes are a constant inspiration for me and introduced me to Mediterranean cuisine is Yotom Ottelengi. I have all his books and can’t wait for his next one that comes out this fall. This I believe was inspired from his first book, I’ve made it so many times it’s taken it’s own life and a regular in our household. It’s very healthy and delicious which is very important because it gets my kids to eat a plate full of veggies. I have a feeling you’ll love it too.
The recipe is pretty freestyle increase or decrease any of the veggies to your liking, but don’t miss the olives, sumac, zaatar chili flakes and (if you can get Aleppo peppers it’s worthy stocking in your pantry. I got mine at the big A store). These flavor makers bring this salad together. Serve it with tahini sauce and any grilled protein for a delicious summer barbecue or for lunch as is.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas, 1can drained and rinsed, or freshly cooked
- 3 Persian cucumber, chopped, about 1-1/2 cups
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups baby/ cherry tomatoes slice in halves if large or leave whole if small ones
- 1 medium sized red onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup pomegrate arils or an orange or your choice of fruit, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained, olive oil preserved preferred
- 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives and green olives sliced ( I like to mix it up)
- 1/2 cup freshly chopped mint, dill or basil leaves ( I like to use all three together)
- 1 cup freshly chopped parsley leaves
- For Dressing
- 3-4 tablespoons your best cold pressed extra virgin olive oil
- 3-4 tbsps lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Sumac
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon zaatar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Sea Salt and black pepper
Directions
- In a large salad bowl, mix the salad ingredients together chickpeas, chopped cucumber, baby tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs.
- In a jar, add all the dressing ingredients extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt and pepper, zaatar, chili flakes, sumac and spices.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and mix gentle to coat. Leave aside for 30 minutes before serving, or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- When ready to serve, give the salad a quick mix and taste to adjust seasoning if at all needed. Enjoy!
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