Experience a blend of textures and flavors with this Crispy Broccoli Rabe, Chickpea, and Fresh Ricotta Salad. This dish combines crispy broccoli rabe, hearty chickpeas, creamy fresh ricotta, and a zesty lemon dressing for a nutrient-packed, delicious meal. It's perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing side dish, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and rich flavors.
Crispy Broccoli Rabe, Chickpea, and Fresh Ricotta Salad
Course: Main, SaladsCuisine: Mediterranean4
servings10
minutes10
minutes310
kcalCrispy Broccoli Rabe, Chickpea, and Fresh Ricotta Salad is a vibrant dish combining crunchy broccoli rabe, hearty chickpeas, and creamy ricotta for a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
1 bunch broccoli rabe, rinsed and trimmed
1 (15-oz) can chickpeas, drained
2 cloves garlic, sliced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Coarse salt, to taste
1 cup ricotta, preferably fresh
Crushed red-pepper flakes, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Cook the broccoli rabe: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli rabe and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and tender. Season with coarse salt and transfer to a plate.
- Crisp the chickpeas: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the drained chickpeas and sliced garlic, and cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chickpeas are golden and slightly crispy. Season with salt and remove from heat.
- Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the crispy broccoli rabe, chickpeas, and garlic. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and toss to combine. Add a pinch of crushed red-pepper flakes for heat.
- Add the ricotta: Plate the salad and top each serving with a generous dollop of fresh ricotta. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with more red-pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Carbs: 28g
Sodium: 300mg
Protein: 14g
Fiber: 7g
This Crispy Broccoli Rabe, Chickpea, and Fresh Ricotta Salad offers a delightful balance of crispy textures and creamy richness. The fresh lemon juice adds brightness, while the crushed red pepper gives the dish a subtle kick. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this salad is both satisfying and packed with nutrients.
