Posted on Sunday, September 7, 2025 in
Salad Recipes
Enjoy a nutritious twist on traditional Portuguese flavors with this healthy chickpea and salt cod salad (Bacalhau with Vegetables). Combining tender, flaked salt cod with protein-rich chickpeas, sautéed onions, garlic, bell peppers, carrot, and leek, this vibrant salad is seasoned with oregano, thyme, and fresh chives for a fragrant, savory finish. Quick to prepare, the cod is gently cooked and flaked before being mixed with colorful vegetables and chickpeas, creating a wholesome, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Rich in fiber, protein, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this easy recipe balances heart-healthy ingredients with authentic Portuguese taste. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra chives, for a dish that’s both flavorful and nourishing. Ideal for anyone seeking a light, healthy, and authentic Portuguese seafood recipe.
| Preparation time | 10 min |
| Cooking Time | 30 min |
| Ready In | 40 min |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4 |
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | 378 |
| Fat | 32g |
| Carbs | 24g |
| Protein | 17g |
Ingredients
1 can chickpeas (about 400 g / 14 oz, drained)2 salt cod fillets (about 400–450 g / 14–16 oz total) previously soaked in water2 tbsp chopped chives1 bay leafOlive oil, for sautéing (about 2–3 tbsp)2 small onions (about 200 g / 7 oz total), sliced into half moons2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced1 carrot, finely sliced (about 100 g / 3.5 oz)1/2 red bell pepper, finely sliced1/2 green bell pepper, finely sliced1/2 leek, sliced into rings1 tsp dried oregano1/2 tsp dried thymeFreshly ground black pepper, to tasteExtra chopped chives, for garnishSalt, to taste
Get Portuguese ingredients
Preparation
- In a pot, cook the cod in water with a pinch of ground black pepper, the bay leaf, and some chopped chives.
- Remove the skin and bones, flake the fish, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the onions and garlic, and cook until the onions turn translucent.
- Add the remaining vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
- Season to taste with salt, oregano, and thyme.
- Stir in the chickpeas and the flaked cod.
- Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes to incorporate flavors.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and sprinkle with fresh chives before serving.
Recipe & Photo Credit: A Cozinha da Familia Antunes
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