Middle Eastern Chickpea Salad ( Balela Salad)

This hearty refreshing Middle Eastern Chickpea Salad, called Balela (bah-lay-la) is bursting with zesty flavor. Served over a bed of greens it makes for a light healthy, vegan and gluten-free meal.  But I love it best spooned into whole wheat pita bread or folded into a tortilla and drizzled with creamy tahini sauce for a delicious, portable wrap. Add feta cheese if you like, or keep it light, lean and vegan. It tastes bright and flavorful from loads of mint and parsley and a zesty lemony dressing. Here I’ve added sumac which also bumps up the zesty flavor, but please don’t let this stop you from making this — it’s good without too! Simple to make, Balela keeps for days in the fridge and becomes our “go-to” during busy work weeks.