This Refreshing Pomegranate Chickpea Salad is a beautiful blend of sweet, savory, and tangy — bursting with colorful ingredients like juicy pomegranate seeds, creamy feta, crisp cucumber, and protein-rich chickpeas. Tossed with fresh herbs, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing, it’s a perfect light meal or side dish that’s as satisfying as it is refreshing. Whether you’re prepping ahead for the week or assembling a quick lunch, this salad is a delicious way to eat the rainbow and nourish your body.

Prep Time: 10 minutes  Cook Time: 0 minutes

Yield: 4 servings  Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pomegranate seeds
  • 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed, no salt added
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp. mint, chopped
  • 2 tbsp. cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup reduced-fat feta, crumbled
  • 2 cups lightly packed arugula
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted
  • 2 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 tbsp. lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the pomegranate seeds, chickpeas, cucumber, red onion, mint, cilantro, feta, pumpkin seeds, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to mix.
  2. Place a bed of arugula (about 1/2 cup per serving) on individual plates or bowls.
  3. Spoon the chickpea-pomegranate mixture evenly over the arugula.
  4. Serve immediately or store the chickpea-pomegranate mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Add arugula just before serving to keep it fresh. Enjoy this vibrant, nutrient-packed salad as a light meal or side dish!

Tips and Tricks:

  • Toss them with a splash of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika about 30 minutes before mixing. This adds depth and flavor.
  • Make mason jar salads with arugula at the top and the chickpea-pomegranate mix at the bottom. Shake to serve!
  • Add a quick splash of lemon juice or a few fresh herbs before serving leftovers to brighten the flavors.

Nutrition Facts: