• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Profusion Curry
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Salads
    • Comfort Food
    • Curry Recipes
    • Desserts
    • Dinner
    • Drinks
    • Gluten Free
    • Indian Food
    • Instant Pot
    • Low Carb Vegetarian Recipes
    • Seasonal and Holiday Recipes
    • Vegan Recipes
  • About Us
  • Privacy Policy
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • 30-minute Dinners
  • Recipe Index
  • About Us
  • Privacy
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • 30-minute Dinners
    • Recipe Index
    • About Us
    • Privacy
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    • Close up image of kothimbir vadi which is Indian savory cilantro fritters made in Instant Pot and Air Fryer.
      Best Kothimbir Vadi Recipe: Crispy Coriander Fritters
    • Cherry tomato chutney is vegan and gluten free condiment made with summer garden fresh cherry tomatoes and spices.
      Cherry Tomato Chutney Recipe
    • Delicious barley salad recipe served in bowls.
      Barley Salad Recipe
    • A bowl of hearty Indian Lentil Salad which also is curry lentil salad.
      Lentil Salad with Curry Lemon Dressing
    • Vegan seasoned smashed potatoes served on the platter.
      Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes
    • Rice Noodles Stir Fry along with colorful veggies served for gluten free and vegan Asian dinner.
      Rice Noodle Stir Fry
    • Close up image showing all the colorful veggies and hard boiled eggs used in this making this scrumptious salad.
      Avocado Egg Salad
    • Banza Chickpea pasta with broccoli is served for low carb, high protein meals. This vegan and gluten-free pasta recipe is full of clean eating ingredients.
      Banza Chickpea Pasta Recipe
    • Zucchini noodles cooked with Italian seasoning for vegan, gluten-free and low carb meal.
      Italian Zoodles - Spiralized Zucchini Noodles
    • Vibrant and hearty Italian Pasta salad with full of veggies and cheese and flavorful dressing.
      Italian Pasta Salad
    • Stalks of tender green roasted asparagus served with lemon wedges ad seasoning.
      Air Fryer Roasted Asparagus Recipe
    • Mushroom Stew with vegetables and seasoning served over mashed potatoes for comforting vegan and gluten free dinner.
      Mushroom Stew
    Profusion Curry » Salads

    Kala Chana Salad

    Published: May 26, 2023 by Prajakta Sukhatme · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Pinterest image with text overlay for black chana chat salad recipe.

    Kala Chana Salad is a nutrient-packed delight with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Made with cooked black chickpeas and fresh vegetables, this salad is rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

    Fully assembled Kala Chana Chat Salad served in a bowl with fork.

    Let me show you how easy it is make this delicious recipe of kala chana , along with tantalizing dressing ideas, and provide storage and meal prep tips to effortlessly incorporate this wholesome dish into your routine.

    This recipe is vegan and gluten free. You can buy Black Chickpeas in Indian grocery stores as well as on Amazon.

    What is Kala Chana

    Kala Chana, also known as black chickpeas, is a variety of chickpeas that are smaller and darker in color compared to the more common beige chickpeas. These legumes have a nutty flavor and a firm texture.

    Kala Chana is widely used in various cuisines around the world and is known for its high protein and fiber content, making it a nutritious choice for vegetarian and vegan diets.

    Soaked kala chana aka black chickpeas.

    It is a staple ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines, often used in curries, salads, soups, and snacks. Kala Chana Curry is our staple dinner nutrient powerhouse.

    Cooked Kala chana, imparts a unique earthy flavor and a hearty texture to this salad. Moreover, the combination of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of flavors, elevating the taste experience.

    Ingredients

    Kala Chana : Kala chana, also called black chickpeas ( garbanzo beans) You can buy Black Chickpeas in Indian grocery stores as well as on Amazon.

    Vegetables and Greens : I like to layer the salad with variety of mixed greens and crunchy vegetables. Onion, tomatoes and cucumber are my go-to salad components. You can use baby spinach, Cole slaw mix, spring greens, lettuce, kale or other greens.

    Dressing : I used olive oil, lemon juice, roasted cumin seeds, Red Chili flakes and salt and pepper.

    Ingredients used in making this kala chana recipe.

    Preparation

    To make Kala Chana Salad, start by soaking the black chickpeas overnight. Then, cook them until tender yet slightly firm. Recipe card has instructions on how to cook it Instant Pot as well as stove top pressure cooker.

    Boiling chana in Instant Pot pressure cooker.

    Once cooled, combine the black chickpeas with finely chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and leafy in a large bowl.

    Preparation step showing how to put together black chickpea salad.

    Make the dressing by whisking together olive oil, cumin seeds, lemon juice, red pepper with salt and pepper.

    Making dressing for the kala chana chat salad.

    Toss gently to mix all the ingredients. Serve cold and Enjoy !

    Dressing Ideas

    To enhance the flavors of the salad, try these dressing ideas:

    • Tangy Yogurt Dressing: Whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle this creamy dressing over the salad for a zesty twist.
    • Zesty Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette: Combine lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley and basil), salt, and pepper. Mix well and drizzle over the salad for a refreshing kick.
    • Avocado Cilantro Lime Dressing : This creamy and herbaceous dressing adds a wonderful flavor boost to this earthy salad.
    • As a Indian Kala Chana Chat with Mint Cilantro Chutney and Date Tamariand Chutney.

    Serving Suggestions

    Serve the black chana chat salad chilled or at room temperature to savor its vibrant flavors. As a Light Lunch: Enjoy the salad as a standalone meal, accompanied by a slice of crusty whole-grain bread.
    Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-rounded meal.
    Party Platter: Present the salad on a colorful platter garnished with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chaat masala for an appetizing party starter.

    Storage and Meal Prep:

    For optimal freshness and convenience, consider these storage and meal prep tips:

    Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
    Meal Prep: Prepare a large batch of Kala Chana Salad and portion it into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches or quick snacks throughout the week.

    Pro Tips

    • For added flavor, toss the cooked chickpeas in olive oil, paprika, cumin, and salt before roasting them in the oven until crispy.
    • You can also substitute with white chickpeas (garbanzo beans) in this recipe. Our favorite Chickpea Salad ( chana salad) is also glorious.
    • To save time, use canned chickpeas instead of soaking and cooking them from scratch. Rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the salad.
    • You can add variety of different vegetables to this salad.
    Kala Chana Chat Salad with lemon dressing served in a bowl.

    Recipe FAQs

    How to cook black chickpeas ( kala chana) in Instant Pot?

    Wash and soak 1 cup black chickpeas in 3 cups of cold water overnight. Discard the water. Pressure cook on high with 2 cups of water in instant pot for 30 mins. Let the pressure release naturally. Drain the excess water and use the black chickpeas in this recipe

    How to cook kala chana on stove top pressure cooker

    Wash and soak 1 cup black chickpeas in 3 cups of cold water overnight. Discard the water. Cook it in manual pressure cooker with 2.5 cups water and ½ tsp. salt for 20 minutes and 4 whistles. Let the pressure open naturally. Drain the excess water and use.

    Hope you enjoy Nutrient-Packed Kala Chana Salad - A Delicious and Healthy Delight. Here are some additional beans and pasta salad recipes for you to enjoy.

    • Quick Orzo Pasta Salad with chickpeas and veggies served with freshly made dressing served in a salad bowl.
      Quick Orzo Pasta Salad - Instant Pot
    • A salad plate full of arugula beet salad with apples, pecans, feta cheese and balsamic vinaigrette.
      Arugula Beet Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette
    • Close up image showing all the colorful veggies and hard boiled eggs used in this making this scrumptious salad.
      Avocado Egg Salad
    • Delicious barley salad recipe served in bowls.
      Barley Salad Recipe

    ❤ If you make this ProfusionCurry Recipe, do let us know how you like it by ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Star Rating and commenting below ! ❤

    📖 Recipe

    Kala Chana Chat Salad with lemon dressing served in a bowl.

    Kala Chana Salad

    Prajakta Sukhatme
    Kala Chana Salad is wholesome protein rich salad. This vegan and gluten free kala chana recipe is easy to make.
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 1 minute min
    Course Colorful Salads
    Cuisine Indian
    Servings 6 people
    Calories 42 kcal

    Equipment

    • Instant Pot
    • Whisk

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas kala chana
    • 1 cup cucumber diced in bite size pieces
    • 1 cup tomatoes diced in bite size pieces
    • ½ cup onion diced in bite size pieces
    • 3 cups leafy greens I used cole slaw mix and spring greens
    • 1 teaspoon roasted cumin seeds

    For Salad Dressing

    • 1 Tablespoon Olive oil
    • 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
    • ⅛ teaspoon red chili flakes to taste
    • salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions
     

    • Add the leafy greens, diced cucumber, tomatoes and onion and boiled black chickpeas to a bowl. Sprinkle roasted cumin seeds on the top.
    • Whisk together olive oil, salt and pepper, lemon juice and red chili flakes together. Pour the dressing over the salad mix. Toss well to combine.
    • Taste and adjust salt as needed. Enjoy !

    Notes

    How to Cook Black Chickpeas in Instant Pot?
    Wash and soak 1 cup black chickpeas in 3 cups of cold water overnight. Discard the water. Pressure cook on high with 2 cups of water in instant pot for 30 mins. Let the pressure release naturally. Drain the excess water and use the black chickpeas in this recipe.
    How to Cook Black Chickpeas on stove top pressure cooker?
    Wash and soak 1 cup black chickpeas in 3 cups of cold water overnight. Discard the water. Cook it in manual pressure cooker with 2.5 cups water and ½ tsp. salt for 20 minutes and 4 whistles. Let the pressure open naturally. Drain the excess water and use.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1cupCalories: 42kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 3gPotassium: 210mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 2408IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 21mg
    Did you make this recipe?Mention @ProfusionCurry or tag #ProfusionCurry!

    ❤️❤️ Follow us on Pinterest , Instagram and Facebook ! We love creating delicious family favorite recipes from around the world. Come Join Us ! ❤️❤️

    More Healthy Salad Recipes

    • Peach mango salsa is delicious summer fruit salsa served as an appetizer or dip.
      Peach Mango Salsa
    • A large serving bowl with spoon full of classic potato salad with creamy dressing. This summer favorite recipe is perfect for BBQ, picnics and potlucks.
      Classic Potato Salad
    • Quinoa Tabbouleh which is made with cooked quinoa, vegetables and herbs tossed in zesty lemon dressing in a bowl.
      Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
    • Asian Cucumber Salad with spicy tangy dressing and sesame seed garnishes served.
      Asian Cucumber Salad

    Sharing is caring!

    • Share
    • Reddit
    • Flipboard
    • WhatsApp

    Filed Under: Gluten Free, Salads, Vegan Recipes

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    I am the recipe developer and photographer of this food website ProfusionCurry! Join me for easy-to-follow recipes and trusted tips to make delicious food and yummy recipes.

    More about me →

    30-minute Dinners

    • Mushroom Stew with vegetables and seasoning served over mashed potatoes for comforting vegan and gluten free dinner.
      Mushroom Stew
    • Delicious and easy Vegan Chickpea Orzo Soup garnished and served in soup bowls.
      Vegetable Orzo Soup
    • Vegan Thai Red Curry with colorful vegetables and tofu served in a bowl.
      Vegetarian red curry recipe with tofu
    • Creamy tender Arborio rice cooked with delicious flavors and served in white bowl along with garnishes. This comforting risotto is easy to make at home using Instant Pot.
      Restaurant Style Risotto Recipe
    • An Italian dinner pasta with tomato cream sauce served with tomatoes and spinach.
      Penne Rosa - Creamy Tomato Pasta
    • A dinner serving of vegan pepper soup with cheesy garlic toast.
      Instant Pot Vegan Stuffed Pepper Soup

    Popular Recipes

    • A glass jar filled with Strawberries and cream overnight oats.
      Strawberries and Cream Overnight Oats
    • Fresh Vegetable Vietnamese Spring Rolls are served along with different dipping sauces. This delicious and beautiful Profusioncurry recipe is a must for summer and spring lunches.
      Easy Vietnamese Spring Rolls
    • Paneer Bhurji is a popular North Indian dish made with Indian cottage cheese, herbs and Indian spices.
      Paneer Bhurji (Cottage Cheese Scramble)
    • 2-ingredient bagel bites with Greek yogurt and almond flour, served on a plate for a satisfying low-carb, high protein breakfast or snack.
      2-Ingredient Bagel Bites with Greek Yogurt
    • Apple puff pastry roses with cinnamon sugar dusting served as a dessert.
      How to Make Puff Pastry Apple Roses
    • Tofu Sofritas with Chipotle Adobo sauce served with garnishes.
      Tofu Sofritas with Chipotle Adobo

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Our recipes are featured on several distinguished publisher. image

    Other

    • Privacy Policy

    Follow Us

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube

    About

    • About

    As an Amazon Associates, this site earns commission from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Profusion Curry

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required