Lunch: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is the perfect side dish for a weeknight meal or summer gathering. As one online reviewer claims, "Really, really tasty. I made it for my birthday BBQ and it was a big hit.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon

Health benefits of Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

Ingredients

4 ounces manchego cheese, chopped
1 (10.5 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup loosely packed mint leaves, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Zest of 1 lemon (1 1/2 tsp.)
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 cup cherry or grape
tomatoes, each cut into quarters (8 oz.)
2 bunches arugula or 1 (5 oz.) box baby arugula, cleaned and patted dry

Instructions

Toss cheese, chickpeas, mint, olive oil, garlic and lemon zest together in a medium bowl; season with salt to taste. Set mixture aside to marinate at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes, or cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in refrigerator overnight.
Add lemon juice and tomatoes to cheese-chickpea mixture and toss to coat thoroughly.
Divide arugula among 4 individual serving plates and spoon marinated cheese mixture on top. Grind freshly cracked black pepper directly over each salad. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.