Nashville Hot Chickpea Salad

Nashville Hot Chickpea Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the heat of Southern cuisine with the freshness of a garden salad. This protein-packed meal offers a perfect balance of spicy and cool elements. As a result, it's an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying yet healthy option. Furthermore, the combination of crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and crunchy almonds creates a delightful texture contrast that keeps every bite interesting.

At the heart of this salad lies the star ingredient: buffalo-spiced chickpeas. These legumes are transformed from humble pantry staples into zesty, protein-rich morsels that pack a flavorful punch. To prepare them, first sauté the chickpeas with aromatic spices. Then, toss them in tangy buffalo sauce. This process not only infuses the chickpeas with bold flavors but also gives them a slightly crispy exterior. 

The spiciness of the chickpeas is beautifully complemented by a medley of fresh, crisp vegetables. Chopped kale or romaine provides a hearty base, while red onions, celery, and carrots add crunch and color. Additionally, the inclusion of cool cucumber and juicy cherry tomatoes brings a refreshing contrast to the heat. To round out the flavors, creamy avocado and zesty ranch dressing offer a soothing counterpoint to the spicy elements.

What truly sets this Nashville Hot Chickpea Salad apart is the inclusion of Nashville Hot almonds. These specially seasoned nuts add an extra layer of crunch and a burst of Nashville-inspired heat. Moreover, they contribute healthy fats and protein, making this salad a well-balanced meal. Therefore, whether you're looking for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner this versatile dish is sure to impress. In conclusion, its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients make it a standout option for any occasion.

Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chickpea Salad

Salad

• 4-6 cups chopped kale (or romaine)
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 carrots, shredded
• ½ cucumber, diced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ avocado, diced
• ½ cup Nashville Hot almonds
• ½ cup ranch dressing

Buffalo Chickpeas

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ⅓ cup buffalo sauce

Instructions for Nashville Hot Chickpea Salad

1. Combine kale, red onion, celery, carrots, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl. Toss together and set aside. 

2. Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add oil and chickpeas. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss together to evenly coat the chickpeas. Pour buffalo sauce on top, then toss together for an additional 2-3 minutes. 

3. Transfer buffalo chickpeas to the salad and mix together. Top with avocado, Nashville Hot almonds, and ranch dressing. Enjoy!