Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

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

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Classics

I love creating light meals that don’t sacrifice flavor, and this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad is a perfect example. Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad is my go-to when I need something quick yet satisfying. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the crunchy chickpeas, and the zesty dressing pulls it all together. Whether I’m enjoying it for lunch or serving it at a gathering, it always garners compliments and keeps everyone feeling great. It’s a dish I can feel good about sharing!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:55:35.060Z

When I first made this salad, I wanted to find a way to incorporate more plant-based protein into my meals. The combination of creamy avocado and protein-packed chickpeas not only offers a nutritional boost but also a delightful texture. I found that adding a splash of lemon juice really brightens the flavors and keeps the avocado from browning.

One tip I discovered is to season the chickpeas before adding them to the salad. This simple step enhances the entire dish and makes each bite memorable. I often serve it on its own or in a wrap for a deliciously refreshing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas create a delightful texture
Bright lemon dressing elevates the flavors effortlessly
Perfect for meal prep, light lunches, or a side dish

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role in its flavor and texture. The chickpeas not only provide a solid protein base but also add a hearty element that makes the salad filling without being heavy. When you drain and rinse the chickpeas, ensure to remove excess starch, which can lead to a creamier dressing once combined.

The ripe avocado is the star of the dish, bringing a rich creaminess that complements the crunch of fresh vegetables. Make sure to select an avocado that yields slightly to pressure; this ensures it’s perfectly ripe. If you're prepping the salad in advance, consider leaving the pit in the unused half of the avocado to minimize browning until you're ready to serve.

Crafting the Perfect Dressing

The bright lemon dressing is where the magic happens; it infuses the entire salad with a zesty freshness. When juicing the lemon, consider using a reamer to extract every drop, ensuring a strong citrus flavor. Don't skimp on the salt and pepper here; they ensure that all the flavors blend harmoniously without overpowering the salad's freshness.

If you want to switch things up, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor. This addition not only enhances the tang but also helps emulsify the dressing, making it cling better to each ingredient in the salad.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a vibrant salad.

Salad Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix and match ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad.

Prepare the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until well coated. Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.

Enjoy your refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including feta cheese or a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top of your salad.

Storage and Meal Prep

This salad is an excellent choice for meal prep due to its durable ingredients. You can prepare it up to a day in advance, but I recommend adding the avocado and dressing just before serving to maintain optimal freshness. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should last about 3 days.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider integrating them into a wrap or adding them to a grain bowl. The flavors continue to meld, making the salad even more delicious the next day, just be cautious with over-mixing after refrigeration to preserve the integrity of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This Chickpea Salad can stand alone as a light lunch or work wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats or fish. For added crunch, try serving it in crispy lettuce cups or alongside pita chips. The vibrant colors and textures make for an appealing presentation at any gathering.

Feel free to customize the salad based on seasonal produce. In the summer, add diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch; in the fall, consider roasted sweet potatoes for heartiness. This adaptability keeps the dish exciting, ensuring you'll want to make it again and again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the avocado from browning.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can substitute chickpeas with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach to customize your salad.