Chickpea Spinach Salad With Curry Yogurt Dressing

Updated: Sept. 2, 2025

Total Time: 20 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Comments: 42

Ingredients

• 1½ teaspoons curry powder

• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 3 tablespoons full-fat yogurt

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for serving, if needed)

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 4 scallions (light green and white parts sliced)

• ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro leaves (finely chopped)

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

• 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas (rinsed and drained)

• 3 packed cups (3 ounces) baby spinach

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Curry Yogurt Dressing

In a large serving bowl or airtight storage container, whisk together curry powder, apple cider vinegar, full-fat yogurt, olive oil, and Dijon mustard until a smooth, creamy texture forms (aim for a thick, pourable consistency). Stir in sliced scallions and chopped herbs, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

Add rinsed chickpeas to the dressing and toss gently to coat. Using a fork, lightly mash approximately ¼ of the chickpeas (this adds a creamy, textured element without over-mashing). Fold in baby spinach and toss until fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 3: Storage and Serving

For make-ahead preparation: Store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Refresh the texture by drizzling a small amount of olive oil over the top before serving.

User Feedback & Variations

Key Comments (42 total):

• Substitution Suggestions:

Non-dairy yogurt query: Yes, plain coconut yogurt works as a substitute for full-fat yogurt. Opt for unsweetened varieties to preserve the dressing’s balance.

• Flavor Enhancements:

• Sweetness & Crunch: Reviewers recommended adding 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 2 stalks minced celery, or pomegranate arils for depth and texture.

• Tanginess Balance: To counteract the original’s vinegar-forward profile, reduce vinegar to 1 tablespoon, triple the curry powder, and add 1 tablespoon plain yogurt.

• Creaminess & Complexity: Adding feta cheese, pickled jalapeños, or capers was suggested for added richness and layers.

Highlighted Reviews:

• Positive: “Fresh and light, perfect as a side to chicken schwarma—will become a staple in our household!”

• Refined: “Triple the curry powder, reduce vinegar to 1 Tbsp, add maple syrup and celery for a balanced, vibrant twist.”

Notes & Private Tips

• Non-Dairy Adaptation: Unsweetened plain coconut yogurt is an excellent substitute for dairy yogurt, providing similar creaminess without lactose.

• Texture Optimization: Mashing ¼ of the chickpeas first (before adding spinach) ensures even distribution of creaminess.

• Make-Ahead Efficiency: This salad is ideal for batch preparation; store components separately and combine just before serving to preserve freshness.

Final Tip: The original recipe’s balance can be adjusted to taste. For a milder dressing, reduce vinegar by half and increase yogurt proportionally.