Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad

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

Highlighted under: Healthy Comfort Plates

I absolutely love this Healthy & Light Avocado Chickpea Salad! It's the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and hearty chickpeas, creating a nutritious dish that's both filling and refreshing. I often make this salad on busy weekdays when I need something quick yet satisfying. The creaminess of the avocado paired with the crunch of cucumbers and the zest of lime make it a delightful meal or side. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate healthy fats and plant-based protein into my diet without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:45:54.196Z

I remember the first time I made this salad; it was a sunny day, and I craved something light yet delicious. The combination of creamy avocado and protein-packed chickpeas was just what I needed. I quickly diced the vegetables and mixed everything in a bowl. The most satisfying part was squeezing fresh lime juice over the top, enhancing every layer of flavor. It became a go-to recipe in my kitchen!

To get the most out of this salad, I recommend letting it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows all the ingredients to marry beautifully, creating a perfectly balanced dish. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients always make it a hit at gatherings. Don't skip adding cilantro; it adds a refreshing herbaceous note that elevates the dish effortlessly.

You'll Love This Salad Because:
Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor
Creamy avocado texture complements chickpeas perfectly
Quick and easy recipe for busy days

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this salad, chickpeas, serves a dual purpose: they provide a hearty, protein-rich base while adding an earthy flavor. Opt for canned chickpeas for convenience, but if you prefer a from-scratch approach, soak and cook dried chickpeas for about 1 to 1.5 hours until tender. This will elevate your dish with a deeper taste and better texture, but be sure to cool them before adding to the salad.

Avocados not only contribute creaminess but also healthy fats, which help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the salad. To choose the perfect avocado, press gently on the skin; it should yield slightly without being overly mushy. If your avocado isn’t ripe yet, place it in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two to hasten the ripening process.

Perfecting the Salad Technique

When combining the ingredients, it's crucial to handle the avocado delicately to maintain its shape and avoid turning it into guacamole. I recommend using a large spatula or your hands to gently fold the ingredients together to keep the avocado cubes intact, offering a nice contrast against the crunchiness of the cucumbers and the pop of the cherry tomatoes. Aim for a visually appealing mix, with vibrant colors showcasing the freshness of each ingredient.

After dressing the salad with lime juice, allow it to marinate for about 5-10 minutes. This short resting period enhances the flavor profile as the lime’s acidity begins to soften the ingredients, blending their flavors together beautifully. Take care not to let it sit too long, as the acidic juice can start to break down the avocado, compromising its wonderful texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Combine the Ingredients

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

Dress the Salad

Drizzle with lime juice, then season with salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together to avoid mashing the avocado.

Serve

Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy fresh!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken or shrimp. Additionally, feel free to customize the mix by adding bell peppers or corn for extra crunch!

Storage and Meal Prep

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly prepare some elements ahead of time. The chickpeas, diced cucumbers, and chopped red onion can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. However, it’s best to add the avocado and cilantro shortly before serving to prevent browning and wilting. If you want to make larger batches for meal prep, consider using separate containers for each ingredient.

To store leftover salad, keep it in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. However, note that the avocado may oxidize and turn brown. If this happens, a sprinkle of lime juice on the exposed areas can help slow down the browning process. When ready to eat, give the salad a gentle toss and enjoy the refreshing flavor boost.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize the salad based on your dietary preferences. For a boost of protein, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or quinoa. These can make the salad more filling, perfect for a light lunch or a main course. You could also incorporate other veggies like bell peppers or radishes if you want a greater depth of flavor and texture.

For serving, this salad pairs beautifully with whole grain pita bread or a light, crusty baguette. It also works wonderfully as a side dish for grilled meats or as part of a larger spread during gatherings. By presenting it in a colorful bowl topped with a sprinkle of additional cilantro, you can impress guests with both flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

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

→ Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?

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

→ How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 2 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, feel free to customize with veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or corn for more flavor and texture.