High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A fresh and vibrant salad combining protein-packed chickpeas and tender spinach leaves, tossed in a creamy lemon-tahini dressing for a nutritious boost. This mediterranean-inspired high protein (vegetarian, gluten free) ready in about 15 minutes blends drained and rinsed canned chickpeas, fresh baby spinach, halved cherry tomatoes into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large salad bowl, combine 2 cups drained chickpeas, 5 cups fresh baby spinach, 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 medium diced cucumber, and 1/4 medium thinly sliced red onion.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp tahini, 3 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp water, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, 3/4 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp ground cumin until smooth and creamy.
  3. Step 3: Pour the lemon-tahini dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are well coated. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes for flavors to meld.

Frequently asked questions

How long does High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is High-Protein Chickpea and Spinach Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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