Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

Introduction

Looking for a light yet protein-packed meal thatโ€™s bursting with Mediterranean freshness? ๐Ÿฅ—๐Ÿ’š This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is everything you need in one bowl โ€” creamy avocado, salty feta, crisp veggies, and hearty chickpeas tossed in a tangy lemon dressing.

As healthy salad trends rise by over 40% worldwide, this quick and nutritious recipe stands out for its balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether youโ€™re meal-prepping for the week or making a refreshing lunch, itโ€™s ready in under 15 minutes and guaranteed to satisfy!


Ingredients List

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • ยฝ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ยฝ cucumber, diced
  • ยผ cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or mint, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins: baby spinach, kalamata olives, or quinoa for extra fiber.


Timing

โฑ Prep Time: 10 minutes
๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Total Time: 10 minutes
๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ‘งโ€๐Ÿ‘ฆ Servings: 2โ€“3

Fast, fresh, and full of goodness โ€” perfect for busy days or healthy lunches on the go.


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Rinse and drain the chickpeas. Dice the avocado, cucumber, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and crumble the feta cheese.


Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended.


Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, avocado, and feta. Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat without mashing the avocado.


Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Top with chopped parsley or mint for extra freshness. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.


Nutritional Information

NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories320 kcal
Protein11 g
Fat22 g
Carbohydrates20 g
Fiber7 g
Sodium380 mg

๐Ÿ’ก Insight: Packed with healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, plus protein from chickpeas and feta โ€” this salad is a complete, balanced meal.


Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

  • Replace feta with goat cheese or plant-based feta for dairy-free diets.
  • Use lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty variation.
  • Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein.
  • Substitute chickpeas with white beans or lentils for texture change.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy as a main dish salad or serve with grilled pita or chicken skewers.
  • Pair with lemon or herb couscous for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
  • Make it a wrap using whole wheat tortillas for a grab-and-go option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • โŒ Overmixing: Avocado will mash โ€” fold gently to keep chunks intact.
  • โŒ Adding salt too early: Feta already adds saltiness; season at the end.
  • โŒ Skipping the acid: Lemon juice prevents avocado from browning.
  • โŒ Storing too long: Best eaten fresh; avocado may oxidize after a few hours.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers up to 1 day in an airtight container.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prep all ingredients except avocado and mix them in right before serving.

Conclusion

This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is the perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and crunchy โ€” a fresh, wholesome bowl youโ€™ll love any time of day. Ready in minutes, itโ€™s proof that eating healthy can be both effortless and delicious.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Try it today and tag #SarapCook with your version of this refreshing Mediterranean salad!