Vegan Zaatar Mango Chickpea Salad

Vegan Zaatar Mango Chickpea Salad: zesty, vibrant, flavorful, and nutritious vegan salad made with mango, chickpea, avocado, cilantro, mint, zaatar, seasoning, and fresh lemon juice. Perfect dish for those seeking a nutritious, plant-based meal that’s bursting with unique flavors. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for quick lunches or light dinners. 

 

Vegan Zaatar Mango Chickpea Salad: A Fusion of Flavors and Health

If you’re looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, look no further than this salad.

Also, if you are a mango lover, then don’t let the season pass away until you have tried my salad recipe.

It’s been long since I posted an easy vegan salad recipe and this one is perfect for summer, spring or winter (if you get great mangoes all season round).

Here are 3 main ingredients for this salad and the rest can be added as per your choice/availability. They are:

Zaatar:

a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend that typically includes thyme, oregano, sumac, and sesame seeds. Its earthy, tangy, and slightly nutty flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of dishes, especially salads or meat.

It’s said to be rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, hence good for digestion and boosting immunity.

Mango:

Use any sweet mango variety you have or like. Often referred to as the “king of fruits,” brings a burst of sweetness and a juicy texture to this salad. Mangos are packed with vitamins A and C, and fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.

In this recipe, the natural sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the zaatar, creating a balanced flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The juicy mango chunks add a vibrant color to the salad, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Chickpeas:

You can use homemade boiled chickpeas or canned chickpeas (drained and washed). Also known as garbanzo beans, are the perfect base for this salad. They’re a great source of plant-based protein, making this dish not only vegan but also protein-rich. They are also high in fiber, iron, and several essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.

Their slightly nutty flavor and firm texture provide a satisfying contrast to the sweetness of the mango and the aromatic spiciness of the zaatar. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, chickpeas are an excellent ingredient to have on hand.

Vegan Mango Chickpea Salad Ingredients: Bringing It All Together

Now, let’s go ahead and grab these easy ingredients for our zesty recipe:

• Fresh Sweet Mangoes – use any varieties you like. 
• Chickpeas – use fresh or canned. They have to be boiled or slightly cooked chickpeas.
• Zaatar – use your favorite brand and is easily available in any Middle Eastern grocer or International grocery chain.
• Cucumber
• Onion – I prefer using red onions here for its flavors, but you can use white or yellow onion or skip altogether.
• Avocado – this adds so much creaminess to this salad.
• Fresh Cilantro & Mint – this mix gives a very flavorful & powerful taste to the salad. You can add both or either as per your choice.
• Pistachio – you can use any nuts you like but pistachios go really well with these flavors.
• Lemon – use fresh if possible
• Seasoning – salt, chili flakes

This vegan salad is not just a medley of flavors; it’s a nutritional powerhouse with sweet, tropical twist that complements the earthy zaatar perfectly.

The fresh vegetables contribute crunch and freshness, making each bite a textural delight.

How to Make This Easy Mango Chickpea Salad:

1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Begin by adding the Chickpeas in a large salad bowl.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced cucumber and red onion, to the bowl with the chickpeas.
3. Incorporate the Mango: Gently fold in the diced mango. Be careful not to mash the mango pieces, as they add a beautiful texture to the salad.
4. Add the Avocado: be gentle while adding to prevent mushing them.
5. Add the Herbs: add chopped cilantro and mint.
6. Add the Nuts & Seasonings: add chopped pistachios or any nuts you like and salt, zaatar and chili flakes.
7. Add Lemon Juice: pour freshly squeezed lemon juice for the zingy flavor.
8. Sprinkle Zaatar:  sprinkle some more zaatar on top, add some more fresh herb mix for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

(You can see the detailed salad process below)

Customizing Your Salad

One of the great things about this salad is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add Some Greens: Toss in a handful of arugula or spinach for extra nutrients and a peppery bite.
• Switch Up the Protein: For a different protein source, try adding cooked quinoa, lentils, or tofu.
• Experiment with Fruits: If you’re not a fan of mango, try using pineapple or papaya instead. Both offer a similar sweetness and texture.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts on top for an added crunch and extra protein.

Perfect Pairings

To round out your meal, consider pairing this salad with a side of warm pita bread or a serving of quinoa.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, this salad pairs beautifully with Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like falafel, baba ganoush, or hummus.

For a refreshing drink, a mint lemonade or a glass of chilled white wine would complement the flavors nicely.

The vegan zaatar mango chickpea salad is a delightful fusion of flavors, textures, and nutrients. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a light dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

Its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory elements makes it a standout recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

 

So why not give this salad a try? Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you 🙂 

 

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Tried Our Recipe – AWESOME!!!

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