Balela Salad

5 from 1 vote

Balela Salad is a flavorful Middle Eastern bean salad made with chickpeas, black beans, tomatoes, fresh herbs, and spices in a tangy vinaigrette. It comes together quickly and easily in just 15 minutes. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch. Easily scaled up to feed a crowd - great for potlucks!

Prep Time15

Total Time15

Course: Salads, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Mediterranean

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan

Servings:

Calories: 184kcal

Author: Jenn Sebestyen

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans drained and rinsed
1 large tomato diced
¼ cup diced white onion
¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons white distilled vinegar
1 ¼ teaspoons salt or to taste
1 teaspoon ground sumac
½ teaspoon dried mint
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
⅛ teaspoon cayenne or to taste

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, sumac, salt, dried mint, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne until relatively smooth.
To the same bowl, add the chickpeas, black beans, tomato, onion, and parsley. Mix well to combine until all salad ingredients are thoroughly coated in the dressing.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Transfer to an airtight container and chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Notes

- Use canned beans to make this easy Balela Salad in just 15 minutes.

- Drain and rinse the canned beans well.

- Sumac has a unique tart and tangy flavor that isn't easily replicated with other ingredients. Definitely give it a try if you can.

- If you must substitute the sumac, try some lemon zest and fresh squeezed lemon juice.

- If you don't have dried mint, fresh mint leaves may be used.

- Prep the salad at least a few hours (up to overnight) before you plan on serving it. This allows the flavors to develop and deepen.
- This recipe makes about 5 cups in total.

Nutrition