Sicilian-style chickpea salad, also known as "insalata di ceci alla Siciliana," is a refreshing and flavorful dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean diet. Originating from the vibrant island of Sicily, this salad is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, featuring tender chickpeas, crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a zesty dressing. Whether you're looking for a light and healthy lunch option or a vibrant side dish to complement your main course, this Sicilian chickpea salad is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
CHICKPEA SALAD
Provided by Rachael Ray : Food Network
Categories side-dish
Time 15m
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Combine chick peas with onions, peppers, celery, garlic, red pepper flakes and rosemary in a medium bowl. Dress salad with vinegar and oil, salt and pepper.
CHICKPEA FRITTERS (PANELLE)
This is a popular street food in Sicily, especially in Palermo, where warm panelle are served between two pieces of country bread.
Categories Bean Appetizer Fry Cocktail Party Vegetarian Chickpea Chill Gourmet Sugar Conscious Kidney Friendly Pescatarian Wheat/Gluten-Free Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free No Sugar Added Kosher
Yield Makes 10 servings (as part of antipasti)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Lightly oil an 8- by 4-inch loaf pan (6-cup capacity) and line with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang at each end.
- Whisk together water, chickpea flour, sea salt, and 2 tablespoons oil in a 2 1/2- to 3-quart heavy saucepan until smooth, then cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon (to prevent lumps from forming), until very thick and mixture pulls away from side of pan, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer mixture to loaf pan, smoothing top. Cool, uncovered, then chill, surface of mixture covered with plastic wrap, until firm, at least 3 hours.
- Lift chickpea block out of pan using parchment and transfer to a work surface. Gently flip over block and discard parchment, then pat dry. Cut block crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices for panelle.
- Preheat oven to 300°F.
- Heat 1/2 inch oil (about 2 cups) in a deep 10-inch heavy skillet until it registers 375°F on thermometer, then fry panelle in 5 batches, carefully turning occasionally with tongs, until golden and puffed, 3 to 5 minutes per batch, and transfer to paper towels to drain. Keep warm on a baking sheet in oven while frying remaining batches.
- Arrange panelle on a platter and sprinkle with parsley and cheese. Serve immediately.
PANELLE (SICILIAN CHICKPEA FRITTERS)
Panelle are the king of Sicilian street food! Humble yet tasty chickpea fritters, which locals traditionally eat inside a soft bun. Traditionally served in a soft bun (pane e panelle) as a simple and filling lunch. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free, they're perfect to serve at your next dinner party in lieu of crackers with dips, or with grilled vegetables or pickles. Wonderful with cold beer or wine.
Provided by lacucinadinadia
Time 1h10m
Yield 40
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Place chickpea flour and some salt in a large saucepan over low heat. Pour in water, a little at a time, while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Once mixture is smooth and creamy, increase to medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mix starts separating from the sides of the pan.
- Add parsley and a bit of pepper. Adjust salt if needed.
- Pour chickpea mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Spread evenly to form a 1 1/2 inch thick layer. Refrigerate until mixture has hardened, at least 30 minutes.
- Slice chickpea mixture into 1 1/2- x 2-inch rectangles.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot until 250 degrees F (120 degrees F). Drop a few rectangles at a time into the hot oil and deep fry until crispy, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 44.9 calories, Carbohydrate 4.1 g, Fat 2.7 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 1.4 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 1.1 mg, Sugar 0.7 g
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, flavorful ingredients will make all the difference in your Sicilian-style chickpea salad. Look for ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tender chickpeas.
- Don't overcook the chickpeas: Chickpeas should be cooked until they are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooked chickpeas will become mushy and ruin the texture of your salad.
- Use a good quality olive oil: Olive oil is a key ingredient in Sicilian cuisine. Choose a flavorful, extra virgin olive oil that will enhance the taste of your salad.
- Season your salad to taste: Sicilian-style chickpea salad should be flavorful but not overpowering. Start with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Then, taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Garnish your salad with fresh herbs: Fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano, will add a pop of color and flavor to your salad.
Conclusion:
Sicilian-style chickpea salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It is packed with flavor and nutrients, and it is easy to make. So next time you are looking for a new salad recipe to try, give this one a try. You won't be disappointed!
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love