Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

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

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad when I want something nutritious yet satisfying. The creamy avocado combined with the earthy chickpeas creates a delicious harmony of flavors. Not only is this salad quick to prepare, but it’s also filled with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Perfect as a light lunch or as a side for dinner, this recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, bringing both freshness and nutrition to my table.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:37:34.529Z

When I first made this salad, I was surprised by how simple yet satisfying it was. The beauty of it lies in the freshness of the ingredients; ripe avocados and cooked chickpeas blend together beautifully. I always add a hint of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors, making each bite refreshing. The process couldn't be easier—just chop, mix, and serve!

One of my favorite tips is to add a little sprinkle of salt to the avocados while mashing them. This makes the flavors pop and prevents the avocado from browning too quickly. The vibrant colors from the tomatoes and cucumbers not only make the salad visually appealing but also enhance its nutritional value. As an added bonus, it keeps well in the fridge for a day!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado adds rich flavor while being heart-healthy
High in protein and fiber from chickpeas, keeping you full longer
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep

Ingredient Insights

The key to this salad's creamy texture lies in the ripeness of the avocados. When selecting avocados, gently squeeze them; they should yield slightly without being mushy. If you buy them hard, place them in a brown paper bag for a couple of days to speed up the ripening process. This attention to avocado quality ensures that your salad has the optimal texture and taste.

Chickpeas serve not only as a protein-rich base but also add a satisfying earthiness that balances the creaminess of the avocado. For added convenience, you can use canned chickpeas to save time, but if you prefer to cook dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and boil until tender, which usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Their slightly firmer texture complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Making the Most of Your Salad

To enhance the flavors, consider marinating the chickpeas before mixing them into the salad. Simply toss them in olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and let them sit for about 15-30 minutes. This small step can significantly elevate the taste by allowing the chickpeas to absorb the seasonings.

If you're looking to add some crunch or an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating nuts or seeds, such as toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds. These additions not only provide a pleasing texture contrast but also increase the salad's nutrient profile. Just a handful mixed in can enhance your experience significantly.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 ripe avocados, diced
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients

Start by dicing the avocados, halving the cherry tomatoes, and dicing the cucumber. Finely chop the red onion.

Mix Salad

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold the ingredients together until well mixed.

Serve

Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness. Garnish with fresh cilantro if using.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider tossing in some feta cheese or a few olives. This salad also works well with any leftover roasted vegetables you may have.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This salad is best served fresh, but if you need to prepare it in advance, store the components separately. Avocado tends to brown quickly, so keeping it separate until serving will maintain its vibrant green color. You can mix the chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion in advance, and add the avocado and dressing just before serving.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the avocado may darken slightly, but it will still taste delicious. To freshen it up, a quick squeeze of lemon juice just before eating can revive the flavors.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize your salad based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You could substitute the cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers for a different texture or swap red onion for scallions for a milder flavor. Additionally, adding a handful of fresh spinach or arugula can give the salad a leafy boost and enhance its nutritional value.

For a spicy kick, try incorporating diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. These small adjustments can transform the salad into a new experience while maintaining its core health benefits. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with flavors while keeping it nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does the salad keep in the fridge?

The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about a day.

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and mix them just before serving to keep the avocado fresh.

→ Is this salad vegan?

Absolutely! This salad is entirely plant-based and perfect for a vegan diet.

→ Can I add more ingredients?

Definitely! Feel free to customize with bell peppers, corn, or even some quinoa for added nutrition.