Chana chaat (Indian chickpea salad)

An Indian street-food salad: chickpeas, onion, tomato and cucumber lifted with spices and lemon. Fresh, tangy and high in protein, it makes a healthy, zesty snack or lunch.

Preparation: 15 min  |  Cooking: 0 min  |  Servings: 4  |  Difficulty: Very easy

Calculated per serving from Anses Ciqual 2025 values for each ingredient, based on the quantities listed. Household measures (spoonfuls, items) use average weights. 228 kcal · 12 g protein · 29 g carbohydrate · 4 g fat

Ingredients

• 2 tins of chickpeas
• 1 red onion
• 2 tomatoes
• 1 cucumber
• 1 tsp chaat masala (or cumin)
• 1 lemon
• 1 bunch of coriander

Method

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. Cut the onion, tomatoes and cucumber into small dice.
3. Mix everything together with the spices.
4. Finish with lemon juice and coriander.

Nutritional benefits

Chickpeas provide plant protein and filling fibre, while the raw vegetables add vitamins and freshness. Chaat masala (a tangy spice blend) adds flavour without any fat. Needing no cooking, chana chaat is a healthy, zesty Indian snack or lunch that is 100% plant-based and naturally gluten-free.

Variations and substitutions

• With pomegranate seeds for colour.
• Hotter: add chilli.
• With yoghurt (not vegan).
• With potatoes (aloo chaat).

Storage and making ahead

Keeps for 2 days in the fridge; add the lemon and coriander just before serving.

💡 Good to know

Chaat masala (tangy, with black salt) gives chaat its flavour; if you cannot find it, mix cumin, lemon juice and a pinch of salt.

See also

Discover more vegetarian recipes · vegan recipes · high-protein recipes · gluten-free recipes · dairy-free recipes.

Ingredients in this recipe: chickpeas · onion · tomatoes · cucumber · cumin.

You might also like these recipes: Baked falafels · White bean and vegetable soup · Vegetarian chilli with black beans and quinoa.