Summer’s almost here and I am always looking for new salad ideas…particularly ones that don’t involve mayo which are not only healthier, but more warm weather picnic friendly.

When I saw this chickpea and raisin salad in June’s {Real Simple}, I immediately dog-earred it.

I’ve already confessed my love for garbanzo beans. I love raisins. And cilantro. And smokey cumin. No brainer, right?

{via}

For a change, I used flat leaf parsley instead of cilantro. Every time I chop flat leaf for a recipe I wonder why I don’t use it more often. It adds so much fresh flavor to the dish ~ not to mention gorgeous color!

This salad is delish. I’m certain it will be more flavorful the longer it sits.

I made it to take to Elliott’s last day of school picnic lunch on Friday.

Hope it lasts that long…….