CHICKPEA KALE SALAD WITH BLUEBERRY SALAD DRESSING

Honestly, salads had never been my favorite thing. I always used to runaway from them. I remember when my mom makes the very basic salad with tomato, cucumber and onions, I was the first one to look away from it. I want the salad plate to be at one corner where its not even visible to me. I sometimes stretch my hand out for onions though ;-). 

I never knew we can have so many variations in salad and salad dressings just kick up the flavors so much. Its like goodness and deliciousness served in a single platter and trust me you gonna start falling in love with salads this way. No more I run away from them rather salads have become a staple just like lentils (Dals),veggie, rice and chapattis. 

Lets get started :

INGREDIENTS:


FOR SALAD: 

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas, you can use canned chickpeas too.
• 2 cups chopped Kale
• 1/cup chopped Cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped Onion
• Cranberries a tablespoon or more if you want :-)

FOR SALAD DRESSING

• 1/4 Extra Virgin Olive oil ( if you want to use less you can )
• 2 table spoon Balsamic Vinegar
• Blueberry Jam or Strawberry jam  2 teaspoon
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste 
• 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (Optional) But it helps in emulsifying the oil and vinegar.
• 1 freshly squeezed lemon juice.

METHOD

• Combine chickpeas, kale, cucumber and onion in a bowl.
• In a separate bowl prepare the salad dressing. Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, jam, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. 
• Whisk or blend the ingredients well.
• Gradually drizzle the dressing on the side of the salad bowl to prevent over dressing in one area. Combine well 
• Garnish with cranberries and Enjoy :-)