Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it the perfect choice for a refreshing meal or side dish. Loaded with protein from the chickpeas and creaminess from the avocado, this salad is not only tasty but also nutritious. The bright notes of lemon and the salty tang of feta enhance each bite, ensuring you’ll want to make it again and again.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 9 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 400 mg
Why Make This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to prepare a healthy dish quickly. It’s easy to throw together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The salad wonderfully balances fresh produce with creamy feta and hearty chickpeas. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also bursts with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, BBQs, or as a lunch meal prep option. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can easily be made gluten-free!
How to Make Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Step 1: Preparation
In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion.
Step 2: Mixing
Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl and gently mix to combine all ingredients, taking care not to mash the avocado.
Step 3: Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Finishing
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Garnish the salad with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
This salad serves beautifully on its own as a light meal or can be served alongside grilled meats or fish. For a complete dinner, consider pairing it with quinoa or pita bread. It makes an excellent filling for wraps or a topping for baked potatoes.
How to Store Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you know you’ll have leftovers, consider adding the avocado just before serving to maintain its bright color and creamy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
- Choose ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
- Opt for fresh, high-quality feta cheese for a creamy, tangy flavor boost.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs, such as dill or mint, for an extra layer of freshness.
- If you want a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds.
- Adjust the dressing’s seasoning to your taste; a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Add black olives and artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean flair.
- Protein-Packed: Include grilled chicken or shrimp to transform this salad into a hearty meal.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in finely diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for added heat.
- Fruit Addition: Add diced mango or oranges for a sweet touch that complements the savory ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Just ensure you soak and cook them beforehand, then allow them to cool before adding them to the salad. -
Is it necessary to use feta cheese?
While feta adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese or omit it entirely for a dairy-free version. -
How can I make this salad vegan?
Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. -
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, but for the best results, add avocado just before serving to keep it from browning. -
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a side dish to any summer meal.
Conclusion
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients that come together to make something truly special. With its rich flavors and various textures, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch option or a vibrant side for your dinner table, this salad is a versatile and delicious choice. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of tastes that will brighten your day!
Print
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and nutritious salad made with chickpeas, feta, and avocado, perfect for any meal or side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and finely chopped red onion.
- Add the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl and gently mix to combine all ingredients, taking care not to mash the avocado.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Garnish the salad with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
