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; Juice of 1 lime; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Natural Cooking

I love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad on warm days when I crave something fresh and nutritious. The combination of creamy avocado and protein-packed chickpeas creates a satisfying dish that is both vibrant and delicious. I often add a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of herbs to elevate the flavors, ensuring each bite is bursting with freshness. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:56:06.890Z

When I first made this salad, I was blown away by how simple ingredients could create such a complex flavor profile. The creamy avocado perfectly complements the nutty taste of chickpeas, and together they make a hearty yet light dish. I recommend using fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to not only enhance the taste but also add a beautiful touch of color to the bowl.

This recipe has become a staple in my household, especially during the summer months. It’s packed with nutrients and looks stunning on the table. Just make sure to serve it fresh, as the avocado can brown quickly when exposed to air. A drizzle of lime juice helps with this, too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich in fiber and healthy fats from avocado and chickpeas
Light yet satisfying, perfect for a quick meal
Versatile and customizable with your favorite veggies and herbs

Choosing the Best Avocados

When selecting avocados for your salad, aim for ripe ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure. This indicates they are creamy and ready to eat. If you find avocados that are too hard, you can speed up the ripening process by putting them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two. For the best flavor and texture, opt for slightly overripe avocados, but be cautious to avoid any black spots, which can indicate spoilage.

The dicing technique for the avocados is also important. Cut them into manageable pieces, about one-inch cubes, to allow for even distribution throughout the salad. This way, each forkful includes a bit of avocado, maximizing the creamy texture alongside the chickpeas.

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Herbs

Cilantro adds a fresh and zesty flavor that complements the earthy chickpeas and creamy avocado, but feel free to experiment with other herbs. If you're not a fan of cilantro, parsley or dill can work beautifully. Always use fresh herbs if possible, as they provide a brighter flavor compared to dried counterparts.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding thinly sliced jalapeño or diced bell peppers. These additions not only enhance the vibrant colors of your salad but also provide a slight crunch and a kick of heat, making each bite more dynamic.

Ingredients

Gather the fresh ingredients to make this 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
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients for a colorful and nutritious salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your salad.

Prepare the Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss to combine.

Serve

Place the salad in bowls and serve immediately, enjoying the fresh flavors.

Enjoy your flavorful and healthy salad!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider adding diced cucumber or bell peppers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftover salad, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. However, keep in mind that the avocado will brown over time. To minimize this, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the remaining salad before sealing the container. This reduces oxygen exposure and can help maintain freshness for up to a day.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, you may want to add a little more lime juice to revive the flavors. Also, consider adding fresh herbs right before serving to enhance the taste and make the salad feel fresh again.

Customizing Your Salad

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can incorporate other ingredients according to your preferences or what you have on hand. For added crunch, think about including diced cucumbers or bell peppers. If you like a bit of sweetness, finely chopped apples or diced mango work well to balance out the flavors.

For extra protein, consider adding feta cheese or cooked quinoa to the mix. These ingredients not only elevate the nutritional profile but also add different textures, making each bite exciting. Play around with different combinations to find what suits your taste best.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the salad just before serving to keep the avocado fresh, but you can chop the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge.

→ What can I substitute for chickpeas?

You can try black beans or cannellini beans if you prefer.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is completely vegan and plant-based.

→ How can I make this salad spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to give it a kick.