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, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations

I absolutely love whipping up this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad on warm days. The combination of creamy avocado and nutty chickpeas creates a delightful texture that is both refreshing and satisfying. I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I need a quick and nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite veggies or add a protein source for extra heartiness. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:55:34.748Z

Making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad was a spontaneous decision one sunny afternoon. I had some ripe avocados and a can of chickpeas sitting on my shelf that needed to be used. Mixing them together with a few fresh ingredients felt like a stroke of culinary genius! The result was a robust, nourishing salad that instantly made my day brighter.

I experimented with various seasonings, and I discovered that a bit of lime juice and a sprinkle of cumin truly elevate the flavors. This salad not only tastes good but also makes me feel energized and satisfied after every bite. It’s a dish that effortlessly balances health and taste.

Why You'll Love This Salad
Creamy avocado enhances the salad's richness without weighing it down.
Chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full longer.
Fresh herbs and lime juice bring a bright, zesty quality to every bite.

Ingredient Insights

Avocados serve as the star ingredient in this salad, adding a creamy texture that balances the sturdiness of chickpeas. When selecting avocados, opt for ones that yield gently to pressure, indicating ripeness. If you're short on time, you can always mash the avocados instead of dicing them, making it simpler to incorporate into the salad. Just ensure they're not overly ripe as that could lead to a mushy consistency.

Chickpeas are not just a source of protein but also play a crucial role in creating a satisfying bite. Using canned chickpeas is convenient, but if you're up for it, try cooking dried chickpeas from scratch. Soaking them overnight and boiling them until tender can enhance their flavor and texture. Remember to season the cooking water to enrich the taste, as bland legumes can dull your salad.

Serving Suggestions

This avocado chickpea salad makes an excellent base for countless additions. Consider tossing in grilled shrimp or diced chicken for a protein boost, or throw in some roasted bell peppers for added sweetness and texture. If you're craving some crunch, adding sliced radishes or cucumbers can elevate the salad's freshness, making it even more refreshing on hot days.

Looking for ways to serve this dish? It’s perfect as a standalone lunch, but it can also accompany a variety of main courses. Try it alongside grilled fish or serve it on a bed of greens for a heartier meal. Additionally, this salad holds up well in the fridge—perfect for meal prep. Just be mindful that the avocados may turn brown after a day, so it's best enjoyed within the first 24 hours.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delightful salad:

Salad Ingredients

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

Feel free to mix in additional vegetables such as cucumber or bell pepper for extra crunch!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad:

Combine Ingredients

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

Add Dressing

Drizzle lime juice over the salad and sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper. Gently toss until everything is well combined.

Serve

Serve immediately, or let it chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to meld the flavors before serving.

Enjoy this salad as a light lunch or a side dish!

Pro Tips

For a more filling salad, add grilled chicken or a handful of quinoa. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day in an airtight container.

Storage Tips

To keep your avocado chickpea salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume it within two days to enjoy the perfect texture of the avocado. If you anticipate leftovers, consider storing the avocados separately. This way, you can prevent browning and maintain the salad's vibrant colors and fresh flavors for as long as possible.

If you do have some brown spots on your avocados, don’t worry; simply scrape off the top layer and mix the remaining avocado back into the salad. The flavors will still be intact, and you won’t compromise on taste. Always check for odors or unusual textures before consuming any leftovers, as fresh ingredients are key to enjoying this salad.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs beyond cilantro, such as basil or parsley, which can give your salad a unique twist. Adding a dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of feta cheese can also provide a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adjusting ingredients based on what you have available.

For added texture, consider incorporating nuts like toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds. This will not only enhance the crunch but also contribute healthy fats and protein. Additionally, for those who enjoy a little heat, a diced jalapeño can be a fantastic addition, giving the salad a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the creamy avocado.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

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

→ Can I substitute the chickpeas?

Absolutely! You can use black beans or even lentils if preferred.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include cucumber, bell peppers, or even corn for added texture and flavor.

→ Is this salad Vegan?

Yes! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a perfect vegan option.