Chickpea Avocado Salad: Fresh, Creamy & Protein-Packed

📖 Description

This Chickpea Avocado Salad is a refreshing, creamy, and nutrient-dense dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes. Perfect as a light lunch, meal prep option, or a protein-packed side dish, this salad blends buttery avocado, hearty chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing to nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.

📝 Ingredients for Chickpea Avocado Salad: Fresh, Creamy & Protein-Packed

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 large ripe avocado, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ red onion, finely diced

• ½ cucumber, diced

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 lime (or lemon)

• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for depth)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

🍽️ Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Rinse and drain chickpeas.

   • Dice avocado, onion, cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes.

   • Mince garlic and chop herbs if using.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, avocado, tomato, cucumber, onion, and garlic.

   • Drizzle dressing over the top and gently toss to combine.

4. Serve Immediately or Chill:

   • Serve right away for best texture (especially the avocado), or chill for up to 2 hours.

📌 Notes

• Best served fresh, but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

• To prevent avocado browning, coat avocado chunks in lime juice before adding to salad.

• Add greens like arugula or spinach for extra volume and nutrients.

• If you prefer a creamier texture, mash half of the avocado into the dressing before mixing.

💡 Tips

• Add Protein: Include quinoa, grilled chicken, tofu, or a boiled egg for even more protein.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño for heat.

• Texture Boost: Add sunflower seeds or roasted pepitas for crunch.

• Meal Prep Tip: Store the dressing separately and add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.

🍽️ Servings

• Serves: 2 (as a main), 4 (as a side)

🧪 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – based on 2 servings)

(Values approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient sizes.)

✅ Health Benefits

• Chickpeas: High in protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.

• Avocado: Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and potassium.

• Tomatoes & Cucumber: Provide hydration and antioxidants.

• Olive Oil & Lime: Anti-inflammatory and refreshing, aiding in nutrient absorption.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, but it’s best to add the avocado just before serving to avoid browning.

Q: Is it suitable for weight loss?

A: Absolutely. It’s high in fiber and protein, which help you feel full longer, with healthy fats to support metabolism.

Q: Can I use dried chickpeas?

A: Yes, just cook them thoroughly first (soaked and boiled until soft).

Q: Is this kid-friendly?

A: Yes! You can omit the onion or add some corn to make it more appealing for kids.

Q: How can I make it more filling?

A: Serve it over quinoa or whole grains, or add a boiled egg or grilled protein on top.