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, rinsed and drained; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Vitality Plates

I love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad for lunch because it’s both refreshing and filling. The combination of creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas creates a delightful texture that I can't resist. Plus, the crunch of fresh vegetables adds a burst of flavor. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, this salad is my go-to meal on busy days. I enjoy it with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors, making it a favorite among my friends and family.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:59:34.788Z

When I first made this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I often combine avocado with beans, but adding chickpeas gave it an extra protein boost that keeps me satisfied longer.

What really makes this salad stand out is the fresh ingredients; I always use ripe avocados and seasonal vegetables. A light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice enhances the flavors beautifully. Don't forget to add your favorite herbs; I love using fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy avocado combined with protein-rich chickpeas
Fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch
Perfectly balanced with zesty lemon dressing

      

Ingredient Insight

The star ingredients of this salad, avocados and chickpeas, not only complement each other taste-wise but also nutritionally. Avocados provide healthy fats, which help to keep you satiated, while chickpeas are packed with plant-based protein and fiber. This combination makes the salad a well-rounded meal option that fuels your day. Opt for ripe avocados; they should yield slightly when pressed, indicating creaminess, which perfectly contrasts with the denser experience of chickpeas.

Fresh vegetables contribute not just flavor but also visual appeal and crunch. Choose colorful cherry tomatoes that are vibrantly red for sweetness and a juicy bite. When selecting cucumbers, pick ones that are firm and crisp; English cucumbers tend to have fewer seeds and a sweeter flavor compared to regular ones. For the red onion, slicing it finely will enhance the overall texture and lessen the sharpness, ensuring no single ingredient overpowers the others.

Dressing Details

The lemon dressing is the key to elevating the flavors in this salad. Fresh lemon juice brings an acidity that brightens the creamy avocado and earthy chickpeas. Use a citrus juicer to get the most juice out of your lemon, and ensure there are no seeds in your dressing by straining it if necessary. If you prefer a unique twist, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing for an extra layer of flavor.

Adjusting the seasoning to your preference is important, especially with the salt and pepper. Start with a pinch of each, then mix and taste before adding more; this allows you to customize the dressing's zestiness while keeping the freshness of the vegetables at the forefront. Tossing the salad ingredients gently with the dressing helps to maintain the integrity of the avocado and avoids mashing it, ensuring a delightful texture.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

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

Mix all the ingredients for the salad in a large bowl, then drizzle with the dressing.

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the diced avocados, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley. Gently toss to combine.

Make the Dressing

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

Combine and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste and enjoy!

This salad can be served immediately or chilled for a little while for enhanced flavor.

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in some cooked quinoa or grilled chicken. You can also substitute lemon juice with lime for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

To keep your Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 1-2 days; however, be mindful that the avocado may start to brown, affecting appearance. To prevent this, you can add a splash of extra lemon juice over the salad to inhibit oxidation before sealing it up, which helps to maintain that vibrant green color.

If making the salad in advance for meal prep, consider keeping the dressing separate until you're ready to eat. This will help to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the creaminess of the avocado. When ready to serve, simply pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss, restoring that fresh, delightful flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This salad makes an excellent lunch, but it's also versatile enough to be served as a side dish at gatherings or picnics. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish to make it heartier for dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside quinoa or whole grain bread to add extra protein and fiber to your meal.

For those looking to add more variety, consider incorporating different ingredients such as bell peppers for added crunch, or feta cheese for a salty contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some spices like cumin or smoked paprika to either the salad or dressing to enhance the flavor profile and create your own twist on this healthy classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance but mix in the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can use black beans or any bean of your choice. White beans work great too.

→ Is the dressing customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to add garlic, honey, or mustard to the dressing for different flavor notes.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the avocado may brown slightly.