Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

Name: Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 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; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Cooking

I absolutely love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad whenever I crave something fresh and nutritious. The combination of creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas not only fills me up but also nourishes my body. I enjoy tossing in a mix of vibrant ingredients to elevate the flavors, and it takes only 15 minutes to whip this dish together. Whether it's a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad is always a winner in my kitchen.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:49:38.030Z

When I first created this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad, I wanted to incorporate ingredients that not only taste great but are also packed with nutrients. The secret to a standout salad is to use ripe avocados and freshly squeezed lemon juice, which adds a zesty brightness. I love experimenting with different herbs, and I've found that a handful of cilantro really brings everything together.

One specific tip I've learned over the years is to lightly mash some of the chickpeas before adding them into the mix. This helps create a creamy texture that complements the avocado beautifully. Each bite is a delicious balance of flavors and textures that I can't get enough of!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors
Creamy texture combined with earthy chickpeas
Nutritious and perfect for meal prep or a quick snack

      

Perfecting Your Avocado

When using avocado in this salad, choose a ripe one that yields slightly when gently pressed. This ensures a creamy texture that blends well with the chickpeas. If you find an avocado that's slightly underripe, you can place it in a brown bag at room temperature for a day or two to speed up the ripening process.

To keep your avocado from browning, consider adding the lemon juice just as you toss it with the other ingredients. The acidity from the lemon helps preserve the vibrant green color while enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.

Chickpea Quality Matters

Using canned chickpeas is convenient, but make sure to rinse them thoroughly to eliminate excess sodium and the metallic taste from the can. This simple step will enhance the chickpeas' natural nuttiness, allowing them to shine in this dish.

If you prefer to cook chickpeas from scratch, soak dry chickpeas overnight and then boil them until they are tender but not mushy, about 1-2 hours. This adds a fresher taste and better texture to the salad, making it even more wholesome.

Tailoring Your Salad

Feel free to customize your salad by adding seasonal ingredients. Bell peppers, radishes, or even corn can add a crunch and extra flavor. Consider incorporating some feta cheese or grilled chicken for added protein if you're looking to make it more filling.

For a hint of spice, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This can elevate the flavor profile and give a nice kick without overpowering the creamy avocado and earthy chickpeas. Adjust the spices according to your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Add Dressing and Seasoning

Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and mix gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure not to mash the avocado too much.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short while if you prefer a chilled salad. Enjoy your healthy meal!

Pro Tips

Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best texture. You can also add cooked quinoa for an extra protein boost!

Storing Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown over time, so it's advisable to consume it quickly for optimal freshness.

If you plan to make this salad ahead of time for meal prep, consider leaving the avocado out until serving. Store your other ingredients mixed together, and simply add the avocado and lemon juice right before eating to preserve its color and creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad serves wonderfully as a light lunch, but you can also present it as a side dish at dinner. Pair it with grilled fish or chicken for a balanced meal that features both protein and healthy fats.

For a more filling option, serve the salad in a whole grain wrap or over a bed of leafy greens. This creates a delicious and nutritious meal that satisfies both your hunger and your need for fresh flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes, canned chickpeas are a great time saver! Just make sure to rinse them thoroughly.

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but will last in the fridge for up to 2 days. The avocado may brown slightly.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or any of your favorite crunchy veggies.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes! This Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad is completely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness.