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 chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, chopped; 1/4 red onion, finely diced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Balance Kitchen

I love how this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad combines vibrant flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients to create a wholesome meal. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays when I want something delicious yet healthy. The creamy avocado pairs seamlessly with the chickpeas, offering both protein and healthy fats. I often grab whatever fresh veggies I have on hand, add a squeeze of lemon, and enjoy a colorful, satisfying dish that leaves me feeling refreshed and energized!

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:43:34.907Z

One of my favorite go-to meals is this avocado chickpea salad. I first experimented with it after hearing about the health benefits of both chickpeas and avocados. The combination not only tastes great but also keeps me full for hours!

I learned that adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors and helps prevent the avocado from browning. It’s a simple trick that has made this salad a staple in my kitchen. Trust me; you’ll not only feel good about eating it, but you'll also enjoy every bite!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Creamy avocado texture balanced with crunchy vegetables
Packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any meal of the day

      

Ingredient Insights

Avocados serve as the creamy base of this salad, contributing healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health. When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren't overly soft to ensure they are perfectly ripe. If your avocados are still hard, you can place them in a brown paper bag to accelerate the ripening process in a couple of days.

Chickpeas not only bring a delightful nutty flavor but also provide a significant protein boost, making this salad satisfying for any meal. Canned chickpeas are convenient for quick meals, but if you prefer dried beans, make sure to soak and cook them beforehand. When using canned, rinsing them under cold water helps reduce sodium content and enhances their flavor.

Serving and Storage Recommendations

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be made ahead of time for meal prep. If preparing in advance, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the veggies from becoming soggy. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a gentle toss to recombine the flavors before enjoying it again.

For a beautiful presentation, layer the ingredients in a glass bowl or individual serving dishes, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through. You can also add toasted seeds or nuts for extra crunch or a handful of leafy greens for additional volume and nutrition. Variations can include adding cooked quinoa or grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients together before you start!

Salad Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, chopped
1/4 red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to customize the salad with any other vegetables or herbs you love!

Instructions

Start by prepping all your ingredients to make the assembly easy and quick!

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the lemon juice over the salad, then add salt and pepper to taste.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined and enjoy immediately!

This salad is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Pro Tips

To make this salad even heartier, consider adding grilled chicken or quinoa for an extra protein boost.

Flavor Variations

To customize the salad further, consider incorporating different vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability. Bell peppers, radishes, or even corn can add unexpected flavors and textures. Opt for herbs like mint or parsley if cilantro isn't your preference; they will bring a fresh twist to the dish without overwhelming the other flavors.

If you enjoy a kick of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a creamier texture, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a tahini drizzle can enhance the dressing while contributing extra creaminess and flavor complexity.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your avocado turns brown before serving, simply drizzle a little more lemon juice over it. The citrus not only adds flavor but also acts as a natural preservative to keep the avocado vibrant. Additionally, ensure that you mix the salad gently to avoid mashing the avocados, which can lead to an unappealing texture.

Should you find your salad lacking flavor, consider adding more lemon juice or a pinch of acid like vinegar. Sometimes, a simple adjustment in seasoning can transform your dish dramatically; start by adding a pinch of salt and tasting before serving, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chickpeas?

Yes, you can use frozen chickpeas, but be sure to cook and cool them before adding to the salad.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown, so it's best to eat it fresh.

→ Can I omit the onions?

Absolutely! You can adjust any ingredient to your taste; try adding bell peppers or radishes as alternatives.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is entirely vegan and packed with healthy, plant-based ingredients.