Chickpea, Edamame and Basil Salad

Who doesn’t LOVE basil, especially freshly picked from an herb garden? Incorporating this delicious herb and others like it into salads throughout the summer is a wonderful way to add a fresh look and taste.   Next time you need a side dish for a cookout, try this delicious salad!  While this recipe is delicious served on its own, serving it over leafy greens can change it from a side dish, to a main dish!  Enjoy!

What You Will Need:

2 cups cooked chickpeas (garbanzo beans)
1 cup cooked edamame (or cooked peas)
1 organic red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, chopped
1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, diced
1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Dash of sea salt
1/8 tsp cracked black pepper

Directions:

1. Combine chickpeas, edamame, bell pepper, red onion, cucumber, and basil in a mixing bowl.  Toss to combine and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, sea salt, and cracked black pepper.  Whisk until ingredients emulsify.
3. Pour dressing over the chickpea mixture while tossing ingredients to ensure everything is completely coated. Serve and enjoy!