High Protein Caprese Chickpea (Printable)

Protein-packed Italian-inspired bowl combining hearty chickpeas with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a nutritious 10-minute meal.

# Ingredient List:

01 - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

02 - 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

03 - 1 cup cucumber, diced

04 - 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved

05 - 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

06 - 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

07 - 1 tbsp balsamic glaze

08 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber (if using), and mozzarella balls.

02 - Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.

03 - Add the torn basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

04 - Transfer to a serving platter or individual plates for presentation.

05 - Finish by drizzling with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.

01 -

You get complete protein without touching meat which means its satisfying enough to stand alone as a meal
The balsamic glaze cuts through the creamy mozzarella creating that perfect restaurant style balance
Everything comes together in literally ten minutes which is a game changer on busy weeknights

02 -

Never add the balsamic glaze until youre ready to serve or it will turn everything an unappealing brown color
Let the salad sit for just five minutes after tossing so the flavors can start mingling but serve within the hour or the basil will oxidize
Room temperature ingredients make a huge difference in how the flavors come together so dont use ice cold mozzarella straight from the fridge

03 -

Buy your mozzarella from the specialty cheese counter rather than packaged it makes a remarkable difference in texture and flavor
If your cherry tomatoes lack sweetness try roasting them at 400F for 15 minutes before adding to the salad