_written july 21, 2026_ - prices are based on the trader joe's in hoboken, nj - makes 3 entree salads or 6 appetizer salads - gadgets needed: can opener, colander, large bowl, spoon - prep time: 10 minutes, or quicker if you're good with a knife - cook time: n/a - clean time: 2 minutes ### blurb Arun likes to be efficient with his cooking time. He does not like chopping vegetables. He does not mind spending a bit more money on a salad. This is a recipe specifically tailored to his tastes. ### ingredients | ingredient | amount, TJ's units | amount, standard units | price, $ | | --------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------- | -------- | | chickpeas | one can | 15.5 oz | 1.19 | | steamed beets | two packages | ten | 4.58 | | cucumbers | one package persian cucumbers | 5 small cucumbers, or 30 linear inches of 1.5" diameter cucumber | 2.49 | | edamame | one package from fridge section | 9 oz | 3.99 | | basil | one package from TJ's, herb section of fridge, since you hate picking leaves from your plant | one to four cups, loosely packed | 2.49 | | balsamic VINAIGRETTE, not vinegar | one quarter bottle | 3 oz | 0.75 | Adding crumbled feta is optional. Same with cubed avocado :) ### instructions: 1. chop the veggies!!! 1. For the cucumbers, cut them in half length-wise. Do that again so that they are in quarters. You can then easily cut the cucumber strips into chickpea-sized pieces. 2. Chop the beets. 3. Roughly chop the basil. 2. add dressing and toss!!!! that's all, folks!!! ### cost total cost: $15.49 - cost per entree serving: $5.16 - cost per appetizer serving: $2.58