Chickpea Salad in Endive Cups

Name: Chickpea Salad in Endive Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head of endive, leaves separated

Highlighted under: Holistic Healthy Cooking

I love making Chickpea Salad in Endive Cups for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any gathering. The combination of crunchy endive leaves filled with a flavorful chickpea mixture not only makes for a stunning presentation but also adds a delightful crunch to each bite. It’s a quick recipe that I can whip up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute appetizers. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-19T19:14:18.941Z

During one of my most recent parties, I decided to serve Chickpea Salad in Endive Cups, and it was an absolute hit! I combined mashed chickpeas with diced vegetables and a light dressing, thinking about creating a healthy yet delicious appetizer. The endive cups provided the perfect crunch, and the vibrant colors of the salad made it visually appealing.

What I love most is how customizable this recipe is. I experimented with adding diced bell peppers and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, which elevated the flavors perfectly. The combination of flavors is truly refreshing, and the presentation makes it a standout dish at any table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh flavors that are invigorating.
High in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
Beautifully presented, perfect for impressing guests.

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of your ingredients is key to making this Chickpea Salad shine. When selecting your bell pepper and cucumber, look for vibrant colors and a firm texture. For the red onion, choose one that feels heavy for its size; this indicates juiciness, enhancing the salad's overall flavor. Using fresh produce not only boosts the taste but also adds a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing.

If you can't find fresh endive, consider substitutes like radicchio or romaine lettuce. Both offer a good crunch and will hold the chickpea salad well. Just remember that radicchio has a slightly more bitter flavor, which could complement the salad's freshness if balanced properly. Enjoying seasonal vegetables can also introduce new flavors, so be open to experimenting!

Perfecting the Chickpea Texture

When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a rough consistency, where some peas remain whole while others are slightly crushed. This not only helps in holding the salad together but also provides an appealing texture. Over-mashing can lead to a paste-like consistency, which may not be as pleasing in your endive cups. I usually mash them until just chunky for the best results.

To elevate the dish further, consider adding diced avocado or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the chickpea salad. These additions not only enhance creaminess but also impart different flavor notes. If you're adding herbs, chop them finely, and stir them in gently to maintain the overall texture of the salad.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful salad:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 head of endive, leaves separated

Prepare the salad by mixing these ingredients in a bowl.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chickpea Salad in Endive Cups:

Prepare the Chickpea Salad

In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until slightly broken down. Add the diced bell pepper, cucumber, and red onion. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until well combined.

Assemble in Endive Cups

Take each endive leaf and fill it generously with the chickpea salad mixture. Arrange the filled endive cups on a serving platter.

Your delicious appetizer is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the salad mix. You can also substitute the chickpeas with black beans for a different twist!

Make-Ahead Tips

This chickpea salad can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for meal prep or parties. You can make the chickpea mixture a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep the endive leaves separate until you're ready to serve to maintain their crispness.

If you're storing leftovers, keep any extra chickpea salad in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as the flavors will meld beautifully over time. However, avoid freezing the salad, as the texture of the chickpeas and fresh vegetables will be affected once thawed.

Serving Suggestions

These endive cups make a fantastic appetizer, but they can also be served as part of a light lunch or brunch. Pair them with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing meal. For added flair, sprinkle some crumbled feta or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze on top before serving.

To present your dish more elegantly, consider arranging the endive cups on a colorful platter and garnishing with lemon wedges or additional herbs. This not only enhances the visual aspect but also allows guests to add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zesty flavor as they enjoy their portion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chickpea salad a few hours ahead of time, but it's best to assemble in endive cups just before serving to keep them crispy.

→ What can I substitute for endive?

If you can’t find endive, you can use lettuce leaves or radicchio for a similar crunch.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Chickpeas and vegetables are naturally gluten-free, making this a perfect dish for gluten-sensitive individuals.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes! Feel free to mix in any of your favorite vegetables like carrots, corn, or avocados for added flavor and nutrition.