Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

Name: Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Foods

I love creating vibrant and nutritious salads that are not only tasty but also incredibly easy to make. This Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a refreshing side dish. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the protein-packed chickpeas, making this salad both filling and satisfying. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing, it comes together in minutes, allowing me to enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:44:41.785Z

When I first made this salad, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it is. I was looking for a light meal that wouldn't weigh me down, and the combination of creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas hit the spot. The trick is to use ripe avocados for that rich texture and to let the salad sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld together.

I also love experimenting with different herbs and spices in this salad. Sometimes, I’ll add a pinch of cumin or a dash of cayenne for an extra kick. It’s versatile and never gets boring!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Packed with healthy fats and protein
Vibrant colors and fresh flavors
Perfect for meal prep and easy to customize

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of this salad plays a vital role in achieving that satisfying texture and flavor balance. The chickpeas not only provide protein but also add a hearty and creamy element, which works alongside the diced avocado. When selecting avocado, look for ones that yield slightly to pressure; this indicates ripeness and creaminess. If your avocado is not yet ripe, you can speed up the process by placing it in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana for a day.

The vegetables in this salad also contribute to its nutritional profile. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and juiciness, while cucumber contributes a crisp crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy avocado. When dicing the cucumber, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad. If you prefer a less watery cucumber, consider using English cucumbers, which have fewer seeds.

Fresh cilantro adds a bright and aromatic touch to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be excellent substitutes. Just a handful of these herbs can lift the entire dish, so feel free to get creative with your herbs based on your flavor preferences.

Tips for the Perfect Dressing

The dressing for this salad is delightfully simple yet incredibly flavorful. The key is to use fresh lime juice as it provides a zesty brightness that brings all the ingredients together. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice is a suitable alternative, though it will impart a slightly different flavor. When whisking the dressing, taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking. A pinch of garlic powder can also add an extra layer of flavor if desired.

Letting the salad rest for about 5 minutes after mixing allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but don’t leave it too long or the avocado may start to brown. To slow this process, you can toss the avocado with a little extra lime juice before combining it with the other ingredients. This added acidity can help maintain its vivid green color and fresh taste.

If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a splash of olive oil for richness. This not only enhances the dressing’s creaminess but also adds healthy fats, making the salad even more satisfying without compromising its lightness.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Mix the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a handful of arugula for a peppery bite.

Making It Your Own

This salad is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand. Adding diced bell peppers can enhance the crunch and flavor profile, or you might include grated carrots for a hint of sweetness. For an extra protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or cooked quinoa, which can transform it into a more substantial meal.

If you’re interested in a spicier kick, toss in a few slices of jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before mixing in the dressing. This variation not only elevates the flavor but also adds an exciting layer of complexity to the salad.

For those who enjoy a bit of tanginess, incorporating feta cheese or goat cheese can be delightful. Just crumble a bit on top after tossing the salad for added flavor and creaminess that complements the avocado perfectly.

Preparation and Storage Tips

Preparing this salad in advance is an excellent way to ensure you have nutritious meals ready to go. You can store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the diced avocado in a container coated with lime juice to help prevent browning. Assembled salads can be stored for about a day, but it's best to enjoy them fresh to maintain the textures.

If you want to make a larger batch for meal prepping, consider doubling the recipe and storing half in the fridge for later in the week. This salad holds up well in terms of flavor for a few days, making it a straightforward addition to lunch or dinner throughout the week.

In case you have leftovers that you've already mixed with the dressing, try using them as a filling for a wrap or topping for toast. This salad’s versatility makes it suitable for various meal occasions, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but consume as soon as possible for the best taste.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this avocado chickpea salad is naturally gluten-free and makes for a great healthy meal.