Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

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

Highlighted under: Vital & Delicious

I love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad whenever I want something refreshing and nutritious. Combining creamy avocado with protein-packed chickpeas creates a delightful texture and flavor. This salad is not only easy to whip up but also incredibly versatile. Whether I serve it as a side dish or a main course, it never fails to impress. Toss in some fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, and you've got a meal that’s colorful, healthy, and simply delicious. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:09:35.290Z

When I first created this avocado chickpea salad, I aimed to make a dish that would be both filling and light. The combination of chickpeas and avocado delivers a satisfying meal without weighing you down. I remember bringing it to a picnic, and everyone was raving about how fresh it tasted. It's like a burst of flavor with each bite!

I find that using fresh lime juice and herbs like cilantro brightens the entire dish. A little experimentation with spices took this salad to the next level. You can also add ingredients like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for an extra crunch. This is a dish that you can make your own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado adds a rich texture to the dish
Packed with protein from chickpeas for a filling meal
Fresh herbs and lime juice bring vibrant flavors

Understanding the Ingredients

Avocados are the star of this salad, providing not just creaminess but also healthy fats that contribute to satiety. When selecting an avocado, look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure—this indicates ripeness. If your avocados are underripe, place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana to speed up the ripening process. Remember to dice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning, as exposure to air can oxidize it quickly.

Chickpeas are not just a source of protein; they also add a satisfying texture that balances the creaminess of the avocado. Using canned chickpeas is a time-saver, but if you prefer a firmer texture, consider cooking dried chickpeas from scratch. To do this, soak them overnight and simmer them until tender—a process that usually takes one to two hours. Rinsing canned chickpeas helps remove excess sodium and enhances their flavor, making them a perfect complement to the other fresh ingredients.

Elevating Flavor and Texture

The addition of lime juice is crucial, as it not only adds acidity but also brightens the overall flavor. If you're a fan of zest, consider grating the lime peel before juicing it—this adds an additional layer of citrus aroma. When dressing the salad, toss gently to maintain the integrity of the avocado. A delicate touch ensures you have beautiful chunks rather than a mushy mix.

Fresh cilantro brings an herbaceous quality that enhances the freshness of the dish. If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can easily substitute it with parsley or basil, both of which will provide a different but still vibrant profile. Also, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers, which add a satisfying crunch while keeping the dish light and refreshing. Experimenting with different herbs can customize this salad to your taste.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Enjoy the salad immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

Tips

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider including sliced bell peppers or grated carrots. Adjust the lime juice according to your taste preference, and feel free to add your favorite spices for extra flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This salad is an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep. If you plan to prepare it in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. Avocado tends to brown quickly once mixed, so add it just before serving for the best appearance and flavor. If you do prepare it ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container can help minimize oxidation.

For optimal freshness, aim to consume the salad within 24 hours if it’s prepped ahead. If you must store it longer, consider omitting the avocado until just before serving. In case the salad is stored for a while, a squeeze of additional lime juice can revitalize the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Avocado Chickpea Salad is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a refreshing side for grilled meats, or pair it with a protein, like grilled chicken or salmon, for a wholesome main dish. For a complete package, consider adding quinoa or farro, which not only increases the fiber content but also creates a more filling meal.

If you're looking for a creative presentation, you can serve the salad in avocado halves. Simply scoop out some flesh, mix it into the salad, and then use the skins as bowls for an elegant touch. Garnishes like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds boost the crunch factor while offering an additional nutrient profile. This can be a hit for gatherings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best served fresh. If you make it ahead, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use black beans or white beans for a different flavor profile.

→ Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All ingredients in this salad are plant-based and vegan.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it's best to consume it fresh.