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

Highlighted under: Fresh Kitchen Favorites

I absolutely love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad, especially on warm days when I crave something refreshing yet filling. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the protein-packed chickpeas and zesty lemon dressing, making it not just satisfying but also nutritious. It’s quick to whip up, taking only about 15 minutes, and it's a perfect addition to any meal or as a stand-alone dish. I've made this salad for friends and family, and it never fails to impress with its vibrant flavors!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:23:34.955Z

When I first discovered how well chickpeas work in salads, I was amazed at the depth of flavor they could add. I decided to experiment by combining them with ripe avocados, fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice. The result was a vibrant salad that is both hearty and incredibly light. I recommend using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to elevate the taste even more!

This salad comes together in no time and is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. I always make sure to season it well with salt and pepper, which really brings all the flavors together. Serve it on its own or as a side dish, and it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado meets protein-rich chickpeas for a satisfying dish
Zesty lemon dressing that brightens every bite
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners

Ingredient Importance

The star of this salad is undoubtedly the avocado. When selecting avocados, look for those that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. This will ensure a creamy texture that binds all the ingredients together beautifully. If your avocados are too hard, place them in a brown paper bag for a day or two to speed up the ripening process. Creaminess is key to balancing the robust flavors of the chickpeas and lemon dressing.

Chickpeas not only offer a protein boost but also add a lovely nutty flavor. Using canned chickpeas simplifies the preparation, but if you prefer cooking them from scratch, soak dried chickpeas overnight and boil them until tender. To avoid any potential canning residue, ensure you rinse the chickpeas well to clean off any excess sodium or preservatives. This simple step enhances the overall taste and healthiness of your salad.

Serving and Variations

This salad is versatile enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding crumbled feta cheese or Kalamata olives for an extra depth of flavor. You could also swap out the cherry tomatoes for diced bell peppers or cucumbers for a different crunch and flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like mint or parsley if you want a fresh taste.

If you plan to make this salad ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the avocados' vibrant color and freshness. In the refrigerator, the salad can last for up to two days, although I recommend consuming it within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor. Any leftovers can be used as a filling for wraps or as a topping on whole grain toast, making for a quick and nutritious meal option.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful salad.

Salad Ingredients

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

Enjoy this nutritious and delicious salad as a healthy meal option!

Instructions

Here’s how to make this refreshing salad.

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, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Combine and Toss

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

Serve

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Dig in and enjoy your healthy creation!

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your avocado is browning too quickly after cutting, a squeeze of lemon juice can help slow down the oxidation process. This not only keeps the color vibrant but also ties in nicely with the zesty dressing of the salad. Additionally, make sure to handle the avocado gently while mixing to prevent it from becoming mushy. You want some texture left in the slices to give that satisfying bite.

In case you find the flavors too bland, start by adding a pinch of salt or a dash more lemon juice. Remember that the balance of flavors is crucial, so add these components gradually and taste after each addition. If it turns out too salty, adding more chickpeas or avocado can help balance it out, providing both volume and creaminess.

Make-Ahead Storage

For meal prep enthusiasts, this salad can be made in advance, ideal for busy weekdays. Just remember to store the ingredients separately if you're planning on keeping it for more than a few hours. The salad components can be kept in airtight containers, with the dressing in another container, to maintain freshness. When ready to eat, simply combine and toss, allowing for the lovely flavors to combine without compromising the texture.

If you want to freeze any leftover salad, keep in mind that the avocado will not retain its texture after freezing. Instead, consider freezing just the chickpeas and dressing separately. You can quickly thaw them for a quick meal, adding fresh avocado and any other fresh components just before serving for a bright and delicious salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it's best to toss them with the dressing just before serving to prevent browning.

→ Is it suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.

→ Can I substitute the chickpeas?

Certainly! You can use black beans or even cooked quinoa as a substitute.

→ How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days.