Crisp red onion, creamy avocado, salty feta, and hearty chickpeas unite in this incredibly flavorful and texturally satisfying salad. The bright lemon-herb dressing brings everything together, cutting through the richness of the avocado and feta while highlighting the earthiness of the chickpeas. This salad is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients that combine to create something truly special.
This Creamy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Feta is perfect for a light and refreshing lunch, a vibrant side dish at a summer barbecue, or a quick and healthy weeknight meal. It’s a delicious way to enjoy plant-based protein and healthy fats without sacrificing flavor.
Why you’ll love this Creamy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Feta
* It’s ready in just 10 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
* The combination of creamy avocado, salty feta, and zesty lemon dressing is simply irresistible.
* This chickpea avocado salad is packed with nutrients and plant-based protein.
* It’s incredibly versatile – customize it with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
* It’s a great way to incorporate more healthy fats into your diet.
* This salad requires minimal cleanup!
Ingredients & Substitutions
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
* 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
* 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**Substitutions:**
* **Feta Cheese:** Goat cheese is a great alternative, offering a similar tanginess with a slightly different texture.
* **Red Onion:** Shallots or even finely chopped green onions can be used in place of red onion for a milder flavor.
* **Lemon Juice:** Lime juice can be substituted for a slightly different, but equally delicious, citrusy flavor. If you want to learn more about the health benefits of a lemon-based diet, this article about sauteed vegetables details how lemon juice can bring out the best flavors in vegetables.
How to make Creamy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Feta
Step 1: Combine the salad ingredients
Chickpea avocado salad makes every moment feel comforting. In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
Step 2: Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Toss and serve
Pour the dressing over the chickpea and avocado mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Chef’s Tip: For the best flavor, taste and adjust the seasoning of the dressing before adding it to the salad. A little extra salt or lemon juice can make a big difference.
Tips for Success
* Use ripe but firm avocados. Overripe avocados will become mushy when tossed, while underripe avocados won’t have the desired creamy texture.
* Don’t overmix the salad, as the avocado can become mashed. Gently toss until just combined.
* If making ahead of time, wait to add the avocado until just before serving to prevent browning.
* For a more intense flavor, let the dressing sit for 15-20 minutes before adding it to the salad. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Feta is delicious on its own as a light lunch, or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with pita bread, crackers, or even lettuce wraps for a lighter option. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing beverage like iced tea or sparkling water.
Storage & Reheating
This salad is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, but it will still be safe to eat. It is not recommended to freeze this salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Can I make this salad ahead of time?**
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning.
**Is this salad vegan?**
No, this salad is not vegan because it contains feta cheese. However, you can easily make it vegan by omitting the feta or substituting it with a plant-based feta alternative.
**Can I add other vegetables to this salad?**
Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and spinach are all great additions to this salad. Feel free to customize it to your liking.
This Creamy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Feta is a simple yet satisfying recipe that delivers a burst of fresh flavors in every bite. The creamy avocado, salty feta, and zesty lemon dressing create a harmonious balance that will leave you wanting more. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Creamy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Feta
This chickpea avocado salad is a vibrant and healthy meal bursting with fresh flavors and creamy textures. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying side dish, it combines the heartiness of chickpeas, the richness of avocado, the tanginess of feta, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal prep time, and is packed with nutrients. This salad is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein and healthy fats into your diet. The feta adds a delightful salty and creamy component, while the lemon dressing keeps everything light and refreshing. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and flavor of this easy, delightful salad!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced avocados, crumbled feta cheese, chopped red onion, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the chickpea and avocado mixture. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. This salad is best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If making ahead, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Consider adding cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra freshness. You can substitute the feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg