Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

Name: Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados, diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Flavor Creations

I absolutely love the freshness and simplicity of this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad. It’s not only vibrant and nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Knowing that I’m nourishing my body with whole ingredients while satisfying my taste buds is a win-win! The creaminess of the avocado perfectly complements the hearty chickpeas. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a snack that keeps me going throughout the day.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:51:35.039Z

Creating this salad was a delightful experience! I wanted something that felt light and refreshing, yet filling enough to make it a meal. I decided to mix creamy avocados with protein-packed chickpeas, and the result was unexpectedly delightful. The balance of flavors from the lemon and herbs elevated the simple ingredients beautifully.

What truly makes this salad shine is the addition of fresh herbs, which I recommend to boost both flavor and nutritional content. One specific tip I would give is to ensure your avocados are ripe but firm; this will enhance the textures and keep the salad from becoming too mushy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado combined with tender chickpeas offers a satisfying yet light texture.
Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that elevates your salad game.
Perfect for meal prep – enjoy it throughout the week!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this avocado chickpea salad plays a vital role in creating a balanced flavor profile. The ripe avocados provide a rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the firm texture of the chickpeas, making every bite satisfying. Opt for avocados that yield slightly under gentle pressure for the best texture. If you're in a pinch, canned chickpeas are a convenient choice, but you can also cook dry chickpeas for a fresher taste, allowing about 1 hour of boiling after soaking overnight.

Cherry tomatoes add a pop of sweetness and acidity, balancing the richness of the avocados. When selecting cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are firm and vibrant, as they will enhance the visual appeal of your salad and provide a burst of flavor. Substituting with diced cucumbers can create a refreshing twist; just be cautious not to add too much, as excess moisture can dilute the dressing.

Fresh cilantro not only provides flavor but also brightens the overall dish. If you're not a fan of cilantro, parsley can serve as a mild substitute without overpowering the other ingredients. Remember to chop herbs finely to release their essential oils, allowing their freshness to permeate the salad.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Consider serving it over a bed of spinach or mixed greens for added texture and nutrition. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, which complements the flavor profile nicely. If you’re short on time, pair it with whole-grain pita or chips for a light but filling snack.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled queso fresco before serving. You can also introduce a hint of spice with a touch of diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes, especially if you enjoy a bit of heat. Don't hesitate to play around with ingredients—adding roasted corn or bell peppers can provide additional color and nutrients.

If making ahead, you can assemble the salad without the dressing and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep the dressing in a separate container until you're ready to serve to prevent the avocado from browning. When ready to eat, drizzle the dressing over and mix for a fresh-tasting salad.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.

Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until well coated.

Serve

Enjoy immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.

Pro Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still taste delicious.

Preparation Tips

When preparing the salad, it's essential to get the right texture for the ingredients, particularly the avocados. To achieve creamy avocado chunks without turning them into mush, use a sharp knife for cutting. I recommend slicing around the pit, twisting to remove it, and then scoring the flesh before scooping it out gently with a spoon. This leaves you with perfect, colorful pieces.

While whisking the dressing, try using a small jar with a lid for easier mixing. Add in the lemon juice and olive oil, close the lid tightly, and shake until fully emulsified. This method not only saves on cleanup but also helps achieve a glossy dressing that clings to the salad ingredients more effectively.

If you prefer your salad chilled, consider chilling both the salad and the dressing separately before combining them, as this can enhance the overall flavor. Cooling the salad also allows the ingredients to meld together and intensify their flavors prior to serving.

Storage & Variations

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within 2 days, as the avocados can begin to brown and soften. To remedy this, pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad can help reduce exposure to air and maintain its vibrant appearance.

If you're looking to make this salad a bit more substantial, try adding a cup of cooked quinoa or bulgur to the mix. This not only boosts the protein content but also adds a pleasant chewiness that complements the other ingredients. You could also substitute black beans for chickpeas for a totally different flavor experience, while still maintaining the salad's texture.

For those following a low-carb diet, consider swapping out chickpeas for diced zucchini or even cauliflower rice. Both options provide heft without the added carbs, and they easily absorb the flavor of the dressing, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the original version.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute canned chickpeas with dried ones?

Yes, just ensure to soak and cook them properly before using.

→ How long will this salad last in the fridge?

It's best eaten within 2 days as the avocado may brown.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, cucumbers, or even corn for extra crunch.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly!