Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

Name: Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wellness Meals Co.

I'm excited to share my favorite recipe for a Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad. This vibrant dish is perfect for a quick lunch or as a refreshing side for dinner. I love how the creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the nutty chickpeas, providing a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and takes just 15 minutes to whip up! Whether you're trying to eat healthier or just want a quick and flavorful meal, this salad is sure to impress.

Created by

Veronica Miles

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:51:34.925Z

When I first tasted a chickpea salad with avocado, I couldn't believe how delicious and filling it was! The creaminess of the avocado combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables makes it a delightful experience. One tip I learned was to add lime juice right before serving, as it keeps the avocado vibrant and adds a zesty kick.

As I experimented with various herbs and spices, I found that adding parsley and cumin really elevates this salad. The flavor profile is fresh and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe whenever I'm looking for something quick and healthy.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy avocado combined with protein-packed chickpeas for a nutritious boost
Fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch and vibrant color
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weekdays

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this salad is the avocado, which not only adds creaminess but also healthy fats that help keep you satiated. Choosing a ripe avocado is key; look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure. If your avocados are firm, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two.

Chickpeas provide a solid protein source, making this salad not just a side but a satisfying meal on its own. Opting for canned chickpeas is convenient, but if you choose to use dried chickpeas, remember they will need to be soaked overnight and cooked until tender before adding them. This can add time but enhances flavor and texture.

Mixing Tips

When preparing the salad, be gentle when mixing the ingredients. This preserves the avocado's creamy texture while ensuring the chickpeas don't get mashed. I recommend using a large spoon or spatula for folding components together—this helps maintain a nice presentation and prevents a mushy salad.

For the dressing, achieving a smooth emulsification is important for flavor distribution. Whisk the olive oil and lime juice vigorously until it appears glossy. If you have a small jar with a lid, you can also combine the dressing ingredients there and shake it until mixed, creating a quick and easy way to incorporate flavors.

Ingredients

For the Salad

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

For the Dressing

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring the avocado is coated.

Serve Immediately

For the best flavor and texture, serve the salad right away. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you love, such as bell peppers or corn. This salad keeps well, so it's great for meal prep!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, keep in mind that the avocado may brown, affecting the visual appeal. To slow this process, sprinkle a little extra lime juice over the avocado before storing.

If you want to prepare components ahead of time, you can chop the vegetables and store them separately for up to two days. Mixing them in just before serving will ensure that everything remains crisp and vibrant.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and color. You might also include a handful of arugula for added pepperiness or corn for sweetness, elevating flavors to suit your taste.

To enhance the salad further, consider adding feta cheese or sliced olives for a salty contrast. For a spicier kick, a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños can be added to the dressing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the avocado fresh.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use white beans, lentils, or even quinoa for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are plant-based and vegan-friendly!

→ How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.