Changing of the Seasons

It was Halloween one day and then it seemed to turn right into the Christmas Season. It is that time of year where we all turn to our fall favorite foods to comfort us. I am always looking for new grain-free recipes for comfort foods. I have found a few new ones and one comes to mind lately. It is not a warm dish, but it is just as good. Chick peas are a staple in my house and they are a great source of protein. The following recipe is one I found in a maple syrup cookbook, but I have changed to make it my own.

Chick Pea Salad with Roasted Peppers

1 can (15oz) chick peas, drained and rinsed

2 peppers (use a variety of colors)

1/2 cup cubed smoked ham

1/2 cup cubed cheddar cheese

1/4 cup sliced scallions

Roast peppers: roast both whole peppers by charing all around under a broiler, on a grill pan or even on your BBQ grill. Once they are charred, cool them slightly and peel the skin off and wipe away the seeds. Cut peppers into strips.

Dressing:

3/4 cup corn oil

2 1/2 tbsp maple syrup

juice of 1 lemon

1 1/2 tbsp dijon mustard

pinch of red pepper flakes

Combine salad ingredients in a bowl. Combine dressing ingredients in a container with a lid, shake until blended. Pour over salad, stir together. Refrigerate at least 3 hours. Serves 6.