This isn’t your average salad. With tender roasted eggplant, hearty grains, crispy chickpeas, and a tangy kick from Kimchi Parmesan, this dish delivers a perfect balance of textures and bold flavors. It’s smoky, savory, and packed with umami goodness in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a nutritious side, or a show-stopping dish for dinner, this salad has got you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 medium eggplant, sliced
- 1 cup cooked grains (like farro, lentils, or quinoa)
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup mixed greens
- ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup Kimchi Parmesan, for topping
- 1 tbsp green onions, sliced (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Roast the vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the eggplant slices and mushrooms on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and slightly golden.
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Prepare the grains and chickpeas:
- Cook the grains according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a pan, lightly sauté the chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor (optional).
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Assemble the salad:
- In a large bowl or serving dish, layer the mixed greens, cooked grains, and chickpeas.
- Add the roasted vegetables on top.
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Finish with Kimchi Parmesan:
- Generously sprinkle Kimchi Parmesan over the salad for a tangy, cheesy kick.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
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Serve and enjoy:
- Serve immediately as a hearty main dish or a flavorful side.
This salad is packed with bold and unique flavors, thanks to the smoky roasted vegetables and the tangy, umami-rich Kimchi Parmesan. It’s nutrient-dense, with protein from the chickpeas, fiber from the grains, and the freshness of greens, making it a wholesome and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, working equally well as a main dish or a side. Best of all, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so it’s perfect for almost any dietary preference!