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; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad for a refreshing and nutritious meal. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, this salad brings together the creamy texture of ripe avocado and the hearty bite of chickpeas. It’s perfect for lunch or as a side at dinner. The vibrant colors and delicious flavors make my taste buds sing! I often enjoy it on warm days when I need something cool and satisfying without feeling heavy.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:46:37.708Z

One afternoon, I wanted a quick but healthy meal that would still fill me up. I combined avocado and chickpeas, and the result was spectacular. The creaminess of the avocado mixed with the chickpeas' nuttiness created a delightful harmony. I also added a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors, and it was exactly what I needed!

After creating this salad multiple times, I've found that using ripe avocados is crucial. They add a buttery texture that elevates the dish. Additionally, I love adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of freshness. This salad is not only tasty but incredibly versatile—perfect for customizing with your favorite ingredients!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Creamy avocado pairs beautifully with hearty chickpeas.
Packed with nutrients and wholesome ingredients.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.

      

The Role of Avocado and Chickpeas

Avocados are not only creamy and flavorful, but they also offer a healthy fat profile that enhances the nutritional value of this salad. The healthy monounsaturated fats in avocados help to absorb fat-soluble vitamins from other ingredients, making each bite even more nutritious. Plus, their unique texture contrasts beautifully with the firm chickpeas.

Chickpeas are a stellar source of protein and fiber, ensuring that this salad is quite filling. They lend a hearty bite that complements the creaminess of the avocado. When using canned chickpeas, remember to rinse and drain them well to eliminate excess sodium and improve flavor freshness, allowing the other ingredients to shine.

Perfecting Your Salad Technique

A gentle hand is key when mixing salad ingredients, especially with the delicate avocado. If you over-toss, you risk mashing the avocado into an unsightly mush. Use a wide spatula to carefully fold the ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors without compromising texture.

When it comes to seasoning, the balance of acidity from the lemon juice and the fresh herbs is critical. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper; you can always adjust as needed. After tossing the salad, taste a spoonful and tweak the seasoning if necessary, allowing the bright flavors to pop.

Ingredients

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
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Gently toss the ingredients together to avoid mashing the avocado.

Dress the Salad

Add the chopped cilantro, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Serve

Serve immediately for the freshest taste. This salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a little extra crunch, consider adding cucumbers or bell peppers to the salad. You can also mix in some feta cheese for added flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared in advance, but I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. The lemon juice can cause the avocado to brown, so to prevent that, store the salad ingredients in an airtight container and dress them right before serving. However, if you plan to enjoy leftovers, the flavors actually meld beautifully after a day in the fridge.

If you're making this for meal prep, consider portioning out the salad into individual containers. Add a slice of lemon to each one to maintain freshness and help keep the avocados vibrant. You can enjoy these for up to three days, making them a perfect choice for quick lunches or snacks.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a hearty side, but it can also stand alone as a main dish. For a more substantial meal, serve it atop a bed of greens or alongside whole-grain pita for a fulfilling lunch. I love pairing it with grilled chicken or fish for an easy dinner that feels gourmet.

Consider adding complementary toppings for variation, such as crumbled feta cheese, sliced cucumbers, or diced cooked beets. These additions not only enhance the dish’s visual appeal but also introduce new textures and flavors, making each serving feel fresh and exciting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance, but it's best to add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for vegans and vegetarians.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use black beans or even quinoa as a substitute for chickpeas if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor.