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; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wholesome Treats

I absolutely love this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad! It’s vibrant, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the earthy chickpeas, creating a delightful texture that keeps me coming back for more. I enjoy tossing in fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for an added burst of flavor. This salad makes a fantastic meal prep option and is perfect for warm days when you crave something refreshing yet filling. Plus, it comes together in just minutes, making it a quick go-to for busy afternoons.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:07:34.670Z

When I first tried making this salad, I knew I wanted to showcase the natural flavors of the ingredients, especially the creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas. After testing various dressings, I found that a simple lemon and olive oil combo allowed the flavors to shine without overpowering them. The result was refreshing and satisfying!

Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to a great salad is letting the ingredients marinate for just a few minutes before serving. It really enhances the taste, and I often prepare it ahead of time to let the flavors develop further. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Why You Will Love This Salad
Creamy avocado adds a rich texture while keeping it light
Packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas for lasting energy
Fresh, zesty flavor that brightens any meal
Quick to make and perfect for meal prep!

Ingredient Highlights

Avocados are not only creamy and delicious but also packed with healthy fats that contribute to satiety without weighing you down. When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly when gently pressed; this indicates ripeness. In this recipe, their buttery texture balances the firmness of chickpeas, creating a satisfying contrast that makes each bite enjoyable.

Chickpeas play a crucial role in this salad, providing a solid source of protein and fiber, which are key components for a filling and nutritious meal. These legumes also add a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience of the salad. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly; this removes excess sodium from canned varieties and improves their texture by eliminating the coating that can affect taste.

Dressing Details

The simplicity of the dressing elevates this avocado chickpea salad without overpowering it. Using fresh lemon juice not only provides vibrant acidity but also acts as a natural preservative for the avocados, preventing browning. When whisking the dressing, aim for a well-emulsified texture—this ensures even coating on your salad ingredients and creates a more harmonious flavor.

Olive oil is a key component in the dressing as it adds richness and a lovely mouthfeel. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for maximum flavor benefit. If you prefer a different seasoning profile, try swapping in ingredients like apple cider vinegar for a milder taste or add a dash of mustard for an extra zing.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, 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 fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and toss gently. Add the dressing just before serving.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by dicing the avocados, halving the cherry tomatoes, and chopping the cucumber and red onion. Make sure to rinse and drain the chickpeas well before adding them to the bowl.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the avocados, chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with the dressing and gently toss until everything is well mixed.

Serve

Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy your healthy and light avocado chickpea salad!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider throwing in some toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This avocado chickpea salad is a wonderful standalone dish, but it can also serve as a flavorful foundation for various meal pairings. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein, or pair it with whole-grain pita chips for a satisfying crunch. For a vegetarian option, serve it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice to enhance its nutritional profile further.

If you're preparing this salad for a potluck or gathering, consider serving it in a large, clear glass bowl. This allows guests to appreciate its vibrant colors. Garnishing it with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese can create an appealing presentation that invites everyone to dive in.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

This salad is ideal for meal prep; you can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to retain the avocados' green color and creamy texture, it's best to add them shortly before serving. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, consider mixing the other ingredients and keeping the avocados and dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container. You might notice slight browning of the avocados; mixing in a little extra lemon juice can help counteract this. When reheating any components, like chickpeas, avoid high heat to keep the salad's fresh and light character intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep the avocados fresh.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use black beans or any other legumes you prefer. They work great with the other ingredients!

→ Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This salad uses only plant-based ingredients, making it perfect for vegans.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the avocado may brown slightly.