Spelt Chickpea & Spinach Salad

Servings: 4 Total Time: 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner
A bright, hearty salad that feels light but keeps you full.
A bowl of Spelt Chickpea and Spinach Salad View Gallery 2 photos

A Simple Salad with Real Bite

This Spelt Chickpea and Spinach Salad brings together fresh greens, tender chickpeas, and the nutty flavour of cooked spelt. The ingredients come together in a clean, balanced way that feels comforting without being heavy. The spelt adds texture, the spinach adds freshness, and the chickpeas add steady protein. The first forkful shows how the flavours sit well together without extra effort.

Why This Salad Works So Well

The recipe stays easy and relies on everyday ingredients. You only need to cook the spelt, toss everything in a bowl, and coat it with a simple dressing. The salad keeps its shape, travels well, and suits a packed lunch or a light dinner. You can also adjust the vegetables and seasoning without losing the main idea. It is a simple base salad that works any day of the week.

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 25 mins Total Time 35 mins
Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: £ 6 Calories: 290
Best Season: Spring, Summer

Description

A bright, hearty salad made with cooked spelt, chickpeas, and fresh spinach. It offers balanced texture, clean flavour, and simple preparation. Ideal for a light lunch, quick dinner, or meal prep option that stays fresh.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

Base Salad

Dressing

Instructions

  1. Cook the spelt according to packet instructions, then drain and cool.
  2. Place chickpeas, spinach, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion in a large bowl.
  3. Add the cooled spelt and gently toss to combine with the vegetables.
  4. Whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and oregano in a small bowl.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything looks evenly coated.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lemon or salt if needed.
  7. Serve immediately or chill for 20 minutes to let the flavours settle.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 290kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 10g16%
Saturated Fat 1.4g7%
Sodium 330mg14%
Potassium 560mg16%
Total Carbohydrate 39g13%
Dietary Fiber 8g32%
Sugars 4g
Protein 11g22%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

The salad holds its texture well after dressing. If preparing ahead, add the dressing just before eating to keep the spinach fresh.


Optional Substitutions or Variations

  • Swap spinach for rocket for a sharper taste.
  • Use pearled spelt for a softer bite.
  • Add fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for lift.
  • Add roasted peppers or sweetcorn for more colour and sweetness.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge: 2–3 days
  • Freezer: Not suitable
  • Meal Prep Tip: Keep dressing separate until serving.
Keywords: spelt salad, chickpea salad, spinach salad, healthy lunch, vegan salad, high fibre

Tips & Variations

Boost the Texture

Add toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch. You can also add small avocado cubes for creaminess.

Turn It Into a Full Meal

Serve the salad with warm bread, baked tofu, or grilled vegetables. It also works as a side next to soups or a light pasta dish.


Conclusion

This Spelt Chickpea and Spinach Salad keeps preparation easy and flavour clear. It works for light meals, packed lunches, and quick weeknight dishes. Try it once, adjust it to your taste, and keep it on hand as a dependable go-to salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I use quinoa instead of spelt?

Yes. Quinoa cooks faster and keeps the salad gluten-free.

Can I use tinned chickpeas straight away?

Yes. Just rinse and drain them to remove excess liquid.

Does the salad taste good chilled?

It tastes fresh and bright straight from the fridge.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, if not keeping it vegan. Feta or mild goat’s cheese works well.

Can I make it without mustard?

Replace mustard with a small splash of apple cider vinegar.

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