Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

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

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen Classics

I love how refreshing and satisfying this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad is! With creamy avocado, protein-packed chickpeas, and a burst of vibrant flavors, it’s a perfect dish for any season. I often whip this up for lunch or a light dinner, and it always leaves me feeling energized and full. The best part? It's super quick to make and requires no cooking! Just chop, mix, and enjoy this vibrant salad that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:51:34.596Z

Creating this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad was a delightful experience for me! The moment I combined the creamy avocados with the earthy chickpeas, I knew this dish was going to be a hit. I always add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors, bringing a zesty brightness that truly elevates the salad.

What I found especially rewarding was how the texture contrasts perfectly, with the smooth avocado complementing the slightly chunky chickpeas. It’s a wonderful balance that makes each bite an explosion of taste. Plus, this salad is incredibly versatile; I often switch up the ingredients based on what I have on hand or what’s in season!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado combined with protein-rich chickpeas for a satisfying meal.
Bright and fresh flavors that can be easily customized.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this salad plays a crucial role in contributing to its overall flavor and texture. The creamy avocados not only provide a rich, buttery mouthfeel but also add healthy fats that help keep you satiated. Chickpeas deliver protein and fiber, making this salad a filling option without being heavy. The cherry tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness and acidity, while the cucumber adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the avocado.

Red onion contributes sharpness and depth to the salad, while cilantro offers a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. When preparing your salad, consider selecting ripe avocados for the best texture; they should yield slightly to gentle pressure. A firm avocado will not mash well, while an overripe one may turn mushy, affecting the dish's overall balance.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the great things about this avocado chickpea salad is its versatility. If you're not a fan of cilantro, try substituting it with fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor twist. You can also introduce additional ingredients like diced bell peppers for extra color or even some crumbled feta cheese for a tangy kick. Making variations based on the season’s produce will keep this dish exciting and fresh all year round.

For those chasing a bit more heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can add a pleasant spice. You can also turn it into a more substantial meal by adding grains like quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition, making it suitable for lunch or dinner. Experimenting with different dressings can also change the vibe; a drizzle of balsamic vinegar could complement the salad beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious salad:

Salad Ingredients

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

Toss all the ingredients together for a perfectly balanced dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Add the Dressing

Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Toss and Serve

Gently toss all the ingredients together until well mixed, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your healthy, fresh salad!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some feta cheese or olives. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is a great option for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just be mindful that avocados tend to brown after exposure to air; a trick I use is to keep the avocado pieces separate from the rest of the salad until just before serving. If preparing in advance, assemble everything except the avocados and lemon juice. When ready to eat, simply add them in and toss for a fresh taste.

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, be warned that the texture of the avocados will change, becoming softer as they mix with the other ingredients, which may or may not be to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside grilled meats or fish for a hearty meal. It also makes a fantastic filling for pita bread, creating a delicious sandwich that’s easy to take on-the-go. For a more substantial option, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens to add even more nutrients and texture.

Another fun idea is to use it as a topping for whole grain crackers or tortilla chips, transforming it into a refreshing appetizer for parties. Regardless of how you serve it, this salad is sure to be a star dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use white beans or black beans as an alternative.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan and healthy.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or any other veggies you enjoy.