sweet and spicy chickpea & mint salad

this salad [or appetizer] can be served two ways, with or without tuna. it is sweet and meant to be enjoyed in small portions. the coolness of the mint and sweetness of the sugar go very well together. using tuna makes it incredibly high in protein, though on its own is just as good. i would only advise only using fresh mint for this one.

sweet and spicy chickpea & mint salad


ingredients:

1 can chickpeas, drained
1 large clove garlic, minced
1/2 small onion, sliced thinly in half moons
small handful of mint leaves, chopped finely
2 - 3 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp white vinegar
2 - 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
red chili flakes or hot sauce, like sriracha

1 can tuna, well-drained
slivered roasted red pepper or sundried tomato

method:

slice onion and mince garlic and mint and put in a medium to large bowl. add the sugar, vinegar, oil and salt and pepper and mix well. add as much hot sauce or chili flakes as you like. mix well and let sit for 20 minutes. stir once or twice.

drain the chickpeas well and add to the bowl. mix well and let marinate for 1/2 hour. taste and adjust.

add tuna and sun dried tomato or roasted red pepper slivers before serving, if using.