Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad. Packed with nutritious chickpeas, creamy feta cheese, and ripe avocados, this vibrant salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, it’s not only healthy but also incredibly quick to prepare—ideal for gatherings or as a light meal.
This salad is not only delicious but also full of healthy ingredients that make it a great choice for any meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a versatile dish that shines at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a healthy option for lunch, this salad fits the bill perfectly. The vibrant colors and textures not only appeal to the eyes but also offer a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Easy to prepare and even easier to customize, the salad can be adapted to suit your preferences. Feel free to add grilled chicken for extra protein, or toss in some sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. With its mix of wholesome ingredients, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next lunch or dinner party.
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with nutrients, chickpeas are a wonderful source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. They help in building muscle and keeping you feeling full longer, making this salad not only nutritious but also filling. Avocados contribute healthy fats and are known for their heart-healthy benefits, while feta cheese adds a delicious creamy texture and strong flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Cherry tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is linked to various health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases. The fresh parsley not only enhances the salad's taste but also provides additional vitamins and minerals, making this dish a collective powerhouse of nutrition.
Zesty Lemon Dressing
The homemade lemon dressing elevates this salad to new heights with its zesty and refreshing taste. Using olive oil as a base enhances the salad's heart-healthy qualities, while the acidity from the lemon brightens all the flavors. Honey offers a subtle sweetness that complements the saltiness of the feta cheese, achieving a balanced taste profile.
This dressing is simple to make but incredibly flavorful, ensuring that every bite of the salad is infused with its tangy goodness. Make more than you need, and drizzle it over roasted vegetables or use it as a marinade for other dishes to enjoy its delicious flavor beyond the salad!
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl.
Instructions
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic.
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, avocado, feta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
Toss Together
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
Quick Preparation Tips
To save time, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. You can drain and rinse the chickpeas, dice the avocado, and chop the vegetables a few hours before serving. Store everything in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them in a bowl, add the dressing, and toss.
Another quick tip is to use pre-crumbled feta cheese if you're short on time. This will shave off precious minutes in your prep work, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal without the fuss.
Serving Suggestions
This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side dish for barbecues or picnics. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak kebabs, or fish for a complete meal that takes advantage of summer flavors.
For a heartier option, this salad can stand alone as a light lunch. Simply add some crusty whole-grain bread on the side, or serve it in a wrap for a delicious on-the-go lunch option that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Storage and Leftover Ideas
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it's best to hold off on tossing in the dressing until you're ready to eat, as it can make the salad soggy over time. The chickpeas and vegetables can last up to three days, while the avocado may brown faster, so try to consume it within two days.
Leftover salad can be creatively used in various ways. Consider adding it to a wrap or on top of a grain bowl for a quick and nutritious meal. Alternatively, you can blend the salad into a creamy dip or spread for a delightful snack, making sure nothing goes to waste!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a few hours in advance. Just add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad. Packed with nutritious chickpeas, creamy feta cheese, and ripe avocados, this vibrant salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Tossed in a zesty lemon dressing, it’s not only healthy but also incredibly quick to prepare—ideal for gatherings or as a light meal.
Created by: Riley Dawson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Salad Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and minced garlic.
In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, avocado, feta, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g