Julian Rocha/The Hofstra Chronicle

This dish, one of my mom’s favorite recipes, is perfect for anyone craving a blend of fresh flavors without having to heat up the oven. Whether you serve it on rice, between two warm slices of bread or all on its own, this is a very versatile and filling dish!

Ingredients:

2 cans chickpeas (rinsed and drained)

1 small chopped tomato

⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro

¼ cup finely diced red onion

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil to moisten

1-2 teaspoons ground black pepper

1-2 teaspoons of a favorite seasoning, to taste (Mediterranean sea salt adds a great flavor)

Instructions:

Add the ingredients to a large bowl and mix.

Optional: After mixing, add one diced avocado and gently mix again. The added avocado makes this dish more of a meal than a side.

All the ingredient amounts can be modified to your liking. This dish is best served at room temperature. Leftovers can be refrigerated and warmed in the microwave for approximately 30 seconds.

Enjoy!