Balela (Chickpea and Black Bean Salad)

A quick, simple, and nutritious salad! Balela is a Middle Eastern salad with chickpeas, black beans, parsley, and spices. There are variations that use mint, cumin, and other flavorings, but this one is pretty basic. Feel free to experiment! The salad is very healthy with plenty of protein and fiber from the beans. Serve with good rough peasant bread and red wine.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Calories: 300 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ onion, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• 1 pinch salt and fresh coarsely ground black pepper to taste (Optional)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine garbanzo beans, black beans, tomatoes, onion, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper together in a bowl. Allow to sit for flavors to blend, 15 to 30 minutes.