Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

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

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I absolutely love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad, especially on warm days. The combination of creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas creates a satisfying and nutritious meal that never feels heavy. I enjoy experimenting with various herbs and spices to give it a unique twist every time. This salad not only bursts with flavor but is also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner. Whether I’m hosting a barbecue or just craving something fresh, this salad is always a hit!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:19:34.838Z

Creating this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad was both enjoyable and satisfying. I remember the first time I had it at a friend's gathering; the flavors meld beautifully, and I wanted to recreate that dish myself. The trick is to ensure your avocados are perfectly ripe, as they provide a creamy texture that complements the chickpeas perfectly.

As I made the salad again, I decided to add a sprinkle of cumin to elevate the flavor profile. Trust me, that subtle warmth paired with the freshness of lime juice and cilantro truly makes this dish exceptional. I often keep a batch ready in the fridge for an easy meal prep option through the week.

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Creamy avocado paired with protein-rich chickpeas
Fresh herbs and zesty lime create a vibrant flavor
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Avocado

Selecting ripe avocados is crucial for this salad. Look for fruit that feels slightly soft when gently pressed; this indicates perfect ripeness. If avocados are too hard, they won't mash easily and can disrupt the creamy texture of the salad. Conversely, avocados that are overly soft may have brown spots. If you find yourself with under-ripe avocados, placing them in a brown paper bag with a banana can expedite the ripening process within a day or two.

When dicing the avocados, work gently to avoid mashing them too much. A sharp knife is ideal for slicing through the flesh without causing excessive bruising. After cutting, use a spoon to scoop out the dice rather than peeling, which helps maintain their shape and keeps the salad visually appealing. The creamy avocado acts as a luxurious base, complementing the protein of the chickpeas wonderfully.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The zesty lime juice isn't just a garnish; it plays a pivotal role in balancing the richness of the avocado. The acidity cuts through the creaminess, making each bite refreshing. For an added twist, consider experimenting with different citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit, which can add unique flavor dimensions. Just ensure to adjust the quantity to taste, since some citrus varieties are more potent than others.

Don't overlook the fresh cilantro; it adds a bright, herbal note that elevates the entire dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley makes a great substitute without compromising the freshness. You can also introduce a hint of jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Fresh herbs not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color, making this salad visually enticing.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this nutritious salad.

Ingredients

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

These ingredients combine beautifully for a refreshing salad.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your salad.

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Add Seasoning

Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together to combine.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for the best flavor, or chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes for a refreshing dish.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for a day.

Pro Tips

Make sure to use ripe avocados
they'll enhance the overall creaminess of your salad. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional veggies or spices to suit your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance, making it great for meal prep or entertaining. To keep the avocados from browning, drizzle them with lime juice immediately after dicing. If possible, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and consume within 1 to 2 days for optimal freshness. While the flavors will continue to meld and improve, be cautious that the texture may change slightly as the avocados lose their firmness over time.

For longer storage, consider keeping the salad components separate. Store the diced avocados in one container, the chickpeas and vegetables in another, and mix them together just before serving. This method helps maintain the integrity of each ingredient, especially the delicate avocado, ensuring the salad remains appealing and tastes freshly made.

Serving Suggestions

This Avocado Chickpea Salad makes a delicious and nutritious standalone meal but can also be paired with various options to round out a meal. It can be served on a bed of leafy greens, like spinach or arugula, for added crunch and nutrition. Another great option is to serve it as a topping for whole-grain toast or in a pita for a delightful sandwich alternative.

If you're hosting a barbecue, consider using this salad as a side dish to grilled meats or vegetables. It complements grilled chicken and shrimp beautifully while providing a refreshing contrast to richer flavors. Incorporating this versatile salad into your meals not only adds a burst of color but also ensures a delicious balance of flavors throughout your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, cucumbers, or any favorite veggies.

→ How long will this salad keep in the fridge?

It's best eaten fresh, but it can last up to 1 day in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan and packed with plant-based protein!

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients and mix them shortly before serving to avoid browning of the avocado.