Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

Name: Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Living Recipes

I absolutely love this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad! With its vibrant colors and fantastic textures, it makes for a refreshing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining creamy avocado with protein-packed chickpeas and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s not just delicious, but also incredibly nutritious. I often prepare this salad for lunch or a light dinner, and it always satisfies. Plus, it comes together in just minutes, making it an ideal option for busy days.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:11:36.346Z

When I first tried making this avocado chickpea salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. The key is using ripe avocados that blend creamy goodness with the hearty texture of chickpeas. I also add a splash of lemon juice, which elevates the flavors beautifully. To get everything beautifully mixed, a gentle toss is all it takes, ensuring each bite is bursting with freshness.

I've experimented with different herbs and seasonings, but I always return to the classic combination of garlic powder and fresh cilantro. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely aroma to the dish. I often serve it with whole grain pita for a fulfilling meal. Trust me, this salad is a must-try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado balanced with earthy chickpeas
Bright and zesty dressing that invigorates the palate
Quick to make and perfect for meal prep

Ingredient Insights

When selecting avocados for this salad, ensure they are perfectly ripe. A ripe avocado will yield slightly to gentle pressure and have dark green skin. If you happen to find an unripe one, place it in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two to hasten the ripening process. The creamy texture of the avocado is crucial for adding richness and balancing the earthy flavors of the chickpeas.

The chickpeas in this recipe not only boost protein content but also enhance the salad's overall texture. If you're short on time, canned chickpeas are perfectly fine, but for a fresher taste, consider cooking dry chickpeas. Soak them overnight and boil until tender for about 1-2 hours. They will have a firmer texture and can absorb the dressing beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Dressing

The acid from the lemon juice plays a vital role in brightening flavors while preventing the avocado from browning too quickly. Be sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best taste; bottled lemon juice can lack the vibrant zestiness that makes this salad pop. If you prefer a bit more tang, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few drops of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.

When seasoning the salad, start with a pinch of salt and a few turns of freshly cracked pepper, and adjust according to your taste preferences. Remember that ingredients like red onion and cilantro will contribute their own flavors, so go easy on the salt initially. Taste the salad after tossing and adjust for a perfectly balanced dressing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful salad:

Main Ingredients

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

Once you have everything ready, it's time to put this salad together!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Combine Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Enjoy this fresh and healthy salad anytime!

Pro Tips

To maintain the freshness of the avocado, consume the salad right after preparation. If storing, add some lemon juice directly to the exposed avocado to help prevent browning.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Avocado Chickpea Salad can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. To prevent the avocado from browning, store each component separately: keep the diced avocado, dressing, and mixed ingredients in separate containers. Toss them together just before serving, and this way, your salad will remain fresh for up to two days.

If you plan on storing leftovers, it’s best to consume them within 24 hours for optimal freshness. The flavors will continue to develop in the fridge, but the avocado will start to lose its texture. Consider making extra dressing on the side so you can refresh the salad with a splash of lemon juice just before eating.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this salad based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Adding diced cucumber, bell peppers, or even a handful of corn can introduce new flavors and textures. For a kick of spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or red chili flakes to the dressing. The beauty of this salad is its adaptability to seasonal ingredients.

If you're looking for a grain boost, consider mixing in some cooked quinoa or couscous. These additions can transform the salad into a heartier meal while still keeping it light and nutritious. You can also experiment with different herbs, like fresh basil or parsley, which can provide a unique twist to the established flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and mix just before serving to maintain the avocado's freshness.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use black beans or lentils as alternative protein sources.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! This salad is entirely plant-based and perfect for vegans.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika, or throw in some diced bell peppers for added crunch.