Carrot-and-Chickpea Salad

• FAST
• HEALTHY
• MAKE-AHEAD
• STAFF-FAVORITE
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2. 1 garlic clove, minced
3. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4. 1/2 cup slivered almonds
5. 2 packed cups cilantro leaves and stems
6. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
7. 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
8. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
9. 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
10. Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
11. Two 15-ounce cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
12. 1 pound carrots, peeled and coarsely shredded

1. In a food processor, combine the lemon juice with the minced garlic and let stand for 15 minutes. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil. Add the almonds and toast over moderate heat, stirring, until golden, about 5 minutes. Drain the toasted almonds on paper towels and let cool.
2. Transfer half of the almonds to the food processor. Add the cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika and cayenne pepper and pulse until chopped. Add the olive oil and process to a chunky paste. Season with salt and pepper; transfer to a large bowl. Add the chickpeas and carrots and toss. Garnish with the remaining almonds and serve.