FRESH GARBANZO GARDEN SALAD

We found fresh garbanzo beans while shopping at a local Mexican grocery store - and I must admit I was initially underwhelmed. As my husband selected them, I expected him to prepare them, so I did nothing but push them around in the vegetable draw choosing other produce to cook with. However, after a week, I decided it was time to take action and I researched recipes online. Although there were many appealing dishes available, I wasn't planning a trip to the grocery store before dinner, so wanted to use what we had on hand. This fresh, tasty, herb filled salad was my choice, and it was absolutely wonderful.
I loved sitting on the front porch shelling the beans, while the kids played their version of baseball, and my daughter ran over frequently to eat the garbanzo beans right out of the shell. Delicious!!

FRESH GARBANZO GARDEN SALAD

3 cups fresh green (shelled) garbanzos (we didn't have this many)
15 cherry tomatoes, halved (I didn't have these, but I substituted red and orange bell pepper)
1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh mint
2 tablespoons coarsely chopped basil
1 cup cubed feta
½ small red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cucumber, ends trimmed, halved length wise, halved again and sliced
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

In a mixing bowl, add all ingredients and toss gently to combine. Allow to sit at room temperature for 20 to 40 minutes, letting the flavors marry, mixing occasionally. Toss the garbanzo salad and serve.

Enjoy!
Recipe adapted from Califresh of California, Chef Jill Davie
http://califresh.net/recipes/