When considering what to bring as a side in addition to the Harissa Grilled Pork Chops, I wanted to make something that was packed with the protein of a sturdy bean and included a hearty, kid-friendly vegetable. This Chickpea Carrot Salad is all of that, and it's also delicious cold, at room temperature, and warmed. (When you have a new baby, you can't be too picky with the temperature of food because you'll be lucky to eat at all!) This salad is filling but not heavy, and so delicious despite the humble and simple ingredients.
Notes: I wish I had tripled or quadrupled this recipe, too! It kept so well that it made an easy lunch the next day with a fried egg on top. If you have a food processor or large box grater to shred the carrots, this recipe is easy and not labor intensive. If you have neither a food processor or large box grater, this is a great way to work on your knife skills and practice your julienne!
Read More: The Shared New Baby Meal
Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6
2 cans of chickpeas
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 bay leaves
2 garlic cloves, smashed
2 thyme sprigs
2 cups carrots, finely julienned (or shredded)
2 teaspoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 tablespoon mint, chiffonade
1 tablespoon parsley, minced
1 tablespoon chives, chopped
Drain chickpeas and rinse with water - set aside.
Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 bay leaves, 2 smashed garlic cloves, and 2 thyme sprigs to a large skillet. Heat the oil and ingredients until garlic is sizzling. Once sizzling, add 2 cups of shredded carrots and toss to coat in oil and aromatics. Cook for 1 minute.
Add the chickpeas to the skillet and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss the chickpeas for a couple minutes until warmed through. Transfer to a dish to cool.
Before serving remove the bay leaves, garlic, and thyme. Season with 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 teaspoons of sherry vinegar, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with herbs just before serving.
Adapted from Bouchon cookbook by Thomas Keller