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 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy

I love making fresh salads that are both nutritious and satisfying, and this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad is one of my favorites. With creamy avocado, protein-packed chickpeas, and a zesty dressing, this vibrant salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish at dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to throw together in just a few minutes, making it a go-to in my kitchen. I often enjoy it as a refreshing meal prep option for the week ahead, ensuring I always have something healthy on hand.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:07:34.565Z

When I first tried this avocado chickpea salad, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could pack so much flavor and nutrition. The creamy avocado blends beautifully with the crunchy chickpeas, creating a delightful texture. I’ve found that using fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, elevates the salad and adds an extra layer of freshness that is simply irresistible.

One tip that worked wonders for me was to allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together wonderfully, giving each bite a burst of deliciousness. It’s a fantastic way to make a quick meal that feels hearty and fulfilling without all the heaviness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado infused with zesty lemon juice for a bright flavor boost
Nutritious chickpeas provide protein and fiber for a satisfying meal
Quick to prepare, perfect for lunch or as a side for dinner

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using ripe avocados is crucial for achieving that creamy texture that makes this salad so enjoyable. Look for avocados that yield slightly to pressure but aren’t overly soft or bruised. This balance not only ensures a smooth consistency but also enhances the flavor profile, making the salad richer and more satisfying.

The cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the avocados and chickpeas. Opt for vibrant, plump tomatoes, as they bring freshness to the dish. If cherry tomatoes aren't available, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes or even a mix of mini heirlooms for a colorful twist.

Dressing Techniques

The dressing for this salad uses lime juice, a fantastic way to brighten the flavors while balancing the creaminess of the avocado. When squeezing the lime, roll it on the countertop first to release more juice. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup to the lime juice before mixing it in.

To ensure the salad ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, use a gentle folding motion rather than vigorous tossing. This technique protects the avocado from mashing and keeps the salad looking vibrant. Letting it sit for 10 minutes after dressing allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your 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
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together for a delicious and refreshing salad.

Instructions

Prepare the Base

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

Dress the Salad

Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the salad mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently toss everything together to ensure even coating.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider topping the salad with some chopped nuts or seeds, such as pumpkin seeds or walnuts.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, to prevent the avocado from browning, consider adding a little extra lime juice or keeping the salad undressed until just before serving. This keeps it fresh and visually appealing throughout the week.

If you anticipate leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the chopped ingredients in one container and the dressing in another. This way, you can enjoy fresh salads for days without compromising the texture or flavor of any ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this salad based on what you have on hand. For added crunch, incorporate chopped bell peppers or cucumber. If you want more protein, try adding cooked quinoa or grilled chicken. Additionally, if you’re avoiding beans, you can substitute chickpeas with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for that satisfying bite.

To make this salad more substantial, consider layering it on a bed of mixed greens or serving it in a wrap. Pair it with a light vinaigrette for an additional flavor kick, or fold in some feta cheese for a tangy twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.

→ Is there a substitute for chickpeas?

You can substitute chickpeas with any other beans, such as black beans or white beans, depending on your preference.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

→ How can I make this salad vegan?

This salad is already vegan-friendly, as it contains no animal products.