Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, & Microgreens

Experimentation and creativity are at play with this tasty and textured early spring salad. I used what was in the garden, whipped up a vinaigrette dressing and the rest is history!

I make homemade pizza dough at least once a week, but that wasn't always the case. I used to think scratch pizza dough would take too long, be too much fuss, and not be worth the effort. How wrong I was! Our five-ingredient pizza dough is foolproof in terms of flavor and freshness. You can count on this simple recipe every time!

This Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad is a huge hit with my family and friends! I make it every day in the spring, and I plan to replant it in my fall garden. I used seeds from Eden’s Seed Company and their organic mesclun mix, which includes arugula, mustard black knight, mustard mizuna lime streaks, and kale red Russian. This mix is fresh, crispy, and bright, and doesn’t wilt quickly. It has a good body for every leaf and is a real winner! Mesclun (meaning “mixture”) is a colorful collection of tender baby salad greens intended to be sown together for easy harvesting and harvested continuously for a ready supply of fresh, tender, nutritious greens, as described on Eden’s website.

Step into a world of delightful flavors and vibrant colors with our mesmerizing Mesclun, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens salad. This enticing medley of fresh ingredients will awaken your taste buds and nourish your body in the most delectable way possible. Picture a bed of tender mesclun greens, a delightful mix of baby lettuces and greens, forming the base of this culinary masterpiece. As you take your first bite, the roasted chickpeas add a satisfying crunch, releasing a symphony of earthy goodness with every mouthful. But the real star of the show is the microgreens, tiny, nutrient-packed powerhouses that explode with flavor, elevating the salad to new heights. The delicate shoots of micro arugula, radish, and cilantro provide a burst of freshness and a hint of spiciness that will keep you coming back for more. Drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this salad is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a visual spectacle that will leave your guests in awe. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure like no other, where health and taste converge in perfect harmony.

A vegan food journal with fresh, delicious recipes.

Hello, I'm Denise.

I love to eat, garden, travel, and do yin yoga! I make plant-based recipes and photograph them from my 1920’s, remodeled apartment in Rhode Island. I've always loved fresh basil. Put some fresh basil leaves on a piece of cardboard, drizzle on a little olive oil and sea salt, and I'd be tempted to eat it! ❤️

I make homemade pizza dough at least once a week, but that wasn't always the case. I used to think scratch pizza dough would take too long, be too much fuss, and not be worth the effort. How wrong I was! Our five-ingredient pizza dough is foolproof in terms of flavor and freshness. You can count on this simple recipe every time!

Reasons You’ll Love This Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad

This salad is a wonderful combination of flavors you’re sure to love.

    • Irresistible charm – This combination of fresh, flavorful ingredients creates an irresistible charm that draws you in and makes it a must-try dish.
    • Captivating taste buds and nourishing your body with nutrients – The diverse flavors and textures of mesclun, roasted chickpeas, and microgreens come together to create a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. These ingredients are packed with essential nutrients, providing your body with a nourishing boost.
    • A wholesome combination of fresh greens, chickpeas, and microgreens – This salad is a fantastic choice for wholesome, plant-based options. It includes a variety of fresh greens, protein-rich roasted chickpeas, and nutrient-dense microgreens.
    • Perfect harmony of textures – The roasted chickpeas add a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the tender and leafy mesclun greens, creating a pleasing balance of textures in every bite.
    • Nutrient-rich microgreens bursting with vibrant colors and health benefits – Microgreens may be small in size but packed with a concentrated amount of nutrients and antioxidants. Their vibrant colors appeal visually to the salad while providing various health benefits.
    • Enhanced flavor profile with zesty lemon vinaigrette dressing – The salad is dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette that elevates the overall flavor profile, adding a refreshing and tangy element that ties all the ingredients together.
    • Sustainable and eco-friendly ingredients for a guilt-free indulgence – By incorporating sustainable ingredients like mesclun and microgreens, you can enjoy this salad with a clear conscience, knowing that it’s environmentally friendly and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
    • A visual spectacle that celebrates the planet and your well-being –This salad’s colorful array of greens and toppings creates a feast for the eyes. Not only is it visually pleasing, but using fresh and nutritious ingredients also celebrates your well-being and health.
    • Culinary adventure awaits with this delectable salad experience – This unique combination of ingredients offers a culinary adventure, introducing your palate to new and exciting flavors. It’s a delightful departure from typical salads and will leave you wanting to explore more creative culinary delights.

This Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens salad is a true culinary delight. With its vibrant flavors, nutrient-rich ingredients, and versatility, it’s a salad that will satisfy your cravings, support your dietary preferences, and nourish your body. Embrace the beauty of spring with this delightful dish and enjoy the goodness it brings to your plate.

Peach Cobbler

Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad Ingredients

This is a great way to use your young lettuces – either from your garden or the market.

    • Mesclun Mix – A mix of baby lettuces and greens, such as arugula, spinach, and frisée. My mix includes arugula, mustard black knight, mustard mizuna lime streaks, and kale red Russian.
    • Roasted Chickpeas – Cooked and crispy chickpeas seasoned with spices like paprika, cumin, and garlic.
    • Microgreens – Tiny, young greens from various plants like arugula, radish, cilantro, or broccoli, known for their intense flavors and nutrient density.
    • Fresh Greens – Additional fresh and crisp greens, like baby spinach, watercress, or baby kale, complement the mesclun mix.
    • Lemon Vinaigrette – A tangy dressing made from freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or agave for a vegan option), salt, and pepper.
    • Sea Salt and Fresh Pepper – To season the salad to taste.
    • Optional Toppings – For added texture and flavor, you can include ingredients like sliced avocado, toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds or pumpkin seeds), crumbled feta cheese (or a vegan alternative), or dried cranberries.

This delicious salad offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for a light and refreshing meal or a side dish to complement your favorite main course. Enjoy its vibrant colors and nutritious goodness, all while savoring the satisfying crunch of roasted chickpeas and the delightful punch of microgreens.

I make homemade pizza dough at least once a week, but that wasn't always the case. I used to think scratch pizza dough would take too long, be too much fuss, and not be worth the effort. How wrong I was! Our five-ingredient pizza dough is foolproof in terms of flavor and freshness. You can count on this simple recipe every time!

How to Make Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad

This is a super easy salad to make!

    • Prepare Roasted Chickpeas  If you haven’t already roasted the chickpeas, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and drain canned chickpeas, pat them dry, and toss with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set them aside to cool.
    • Wash and Prepare Greens –Thoroughly wash the mesclun, microgreens, and any other fresh greens you use. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Tear larger leaves into bite-sized pieces.
    • Prepare Lemon Vinaigrette – In a small bowl (or in the actual large salad bowl), whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or agave (for a vegan option), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
    • Assemble the Salad – In a large salad bowl, combine the mesclun, fresh greens, and microgreens. Toss them gently to mix evenly.
    • Add Roasted Chickpeas – Sprinkle the roasted chickpeas over the greens mixture, distributing them evenly for that satisfying crunch.
    • Drizzle with Lemon Vinaigrette – Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Toss the salad gently until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
    • Add Optional Toppings – If using optional toppings like sliced avocado, toasted nuts or seeds, crumbled feta cheese or vegan alternative, or dried cranberries, sprinkle them over the salad just before serving.
    • Serve and Enjoy –Transfer the Mesclun, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens salad to individual plates or a serving platter. Serve immediately and savor the delightful blend of flavors and textures.

This salad makes for a nutritious and visually stunning dish, perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or as a side to complement your main course. Enjoy!

Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad Variations

This simple salad is SO flexible you can use it as a base for just about anything!

    • Quinoa Power Bowl Add cooked quinoa to the salad to make it heartier and more filling. Quinoa provides an extra protein boost and adds a delightful nutty flavor.
    • Mediterranean Twist – Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette for a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
    • Tropical Delight – Add diced mango, pineapple chunks, and toasted coconut flakes to taste the tropics. Top it off with a lime-ginger dressing to elevate the tropical vibes.
    • Asian Fusion – Infuse an Asian flair by tossing in sliced bell peppers, edamame beans, shredded carrots, and sesame seeds. Pair it with a sesame-ginger dressing for an enticing Asian fusion experience.
    • Harvest – Celebrate the harvest season by including roasted sweet potato cubes, roasted broccoli, roasted cauliflower, dried cranberries, and candied pecans. Drizzle with a maple-mustard dressing to complete the fall-inspired palette.
    • Mexican Fiesta – Create a Mexican-inspired version with black beans, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, and crushed tortilla chips. Drizzle with a lime-cilantro dressing for a burst of Mexican flavors.
    • Herbed Sensation – Boost the herbaceous notes by adding chopped fresh herbs like basil, mint, and parsley. Accompany it with a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a refreshing and fragrant twist.
    • Protein-Packed: Enhance the protein content by including grilled tofu as a protein option. This makes it a satisfying and complete meal on its own.
    • Summer Berry Bliss: Embrace the summer vibes with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Add candied pecans or walnuts for a touch of sweetness.
    • Creamy Avocado Delight: Make it creamy and luxurious by adding slices of ripe avocado. Drizzle with a creamy avocado-lime dressing for a smooth and luscious finish.

Remember, these ingredients can be adjusted and customized according to your taste preferences and seasonal availability. Feel free to experiment and make the salad your own by adding or substituting ingredients as desired.

 

How to Serve White Daikon Radish and Spring Pea Salad

This interesting salad is great as a side dish or on its own. Here are some ideas for servings.

  • Dairy-Free Stuffed Shells – These dairy-free stuffed shells are cheesy, flavorful comfort food. They’re filled with my homemade vegan ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
  • Grilled Tofu One tasty way to cook tofu is to grill it and by adding fresh veggies like onions and peppers you can really make it interesting. You can eat grilled tofu as a meal, or side dish, or tuck it in a pita pocket. It’s versatile!
  • Homemade Bread – This homemade loaf  bread requires only five ingredients. Soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside, it’s a specialty of our resident baker, Riann!
  • Pasta Primavera – Pasta primavera is a delicious medley of pasta, fresh vegetables, and savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds with its flavorful and satisfying combination. We put a vegan, dairy-free spin on this classic American dish; the flavor is amazing!
  • Cherry Tomato Pasta – This Cherry Tomato Pasta is the perfect summer dinner. It’s filling and delicious and spotlights fresh, in-season cherry tomatoes. It’s full of flavor and bursty tomatoes which everyone is sure to enjoy.

If you decided to try this recipe please do let us know in the comments below.

Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad

Denise Keniston - Basil Lover
Fresh, crunchy, crispy, tasty - the Mesclun Mix, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens Salad has it all@ Experimentation and creativity are at play with this tasty and textured early spring salad. I used what was in the garden, whipped up a vinaigrette dressing and the rest is history!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 28 minutes
Course Appetizer, Salad, Side Dish

Ingredients
  

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Roasted Chickpeas – If you haven’t already roasted the chickpeas, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse and drain canned chickpeas, pat them dry, and toss with olive oil, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set them aside to cool.
  • Wash and Prepare Greens –Thoroughly wash the mesclun, microgreens, and any other fresh greens you use. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Tear larger leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  • Prepare Lemon Vinaigrette – In a small bowl (or in the actual large salad bowl), whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey or agave (for a vegan option), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
  • Assemble the Salad – In a large salad bowl, combine the mesclun, fresh greens, and microgreens. Toss them gently to mix evenly.
  • Add Roasted Chickpeas – Sprinkle the roasted chickpeas over the greens mixture, distributing them evenly for that satisfying crunch.
  • Drizzle with Lemon Vinaigrette – Pour the lemon vinaigrette over the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Toss the salad gently until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
  • Add Optional Toppings – If using optional toppings like sliced avocado, toasted nuts or seeds, crumbled feta cheese or vegan alternative, or dried cranberries, sprinkle them over the salad just before serving.
  • Serve and Enjoy –Transfer the Mesclun, Roasted Chickpeas, and Microgreens salad to individual plates or a serving platter. Serve immediately and savor the delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Keyword mesclun mix, salad, spring salad
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

The Small Food Processor I Use

  I have purchased this small food processor for so many of my family and friends. This Hamilton Beach Electric Vegetable Chopper and Mini Food Processor is perfect for smaller batches, like dressings and dips, when you don’t want to break out your big food processor. Here is my affiliate link. https://amzn.to/3KWU6fA

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