Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

I remember the first time I made a Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad for a summer barbecue. The sun was shining, and my friends arrived, curious about what I had whipped up. I had stumbled upon the recipe while searching for a refreshing dish that was also filling. This salad was a winner! Its vibrant colors and flavors not only tantalized our taste buds but also added a nutritious punch to the meal. The combination of creamy avocado, crumbly feta, and protein-packed chickpeas delighted everyone, transforming my kitchen into a hub of happiness and laughter. If you’re looking for a fresh, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish, this Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is for you!

What is Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad?

Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines three main ingredients: chickpeas, feta cheese, and avocado. The salad marries protein-rich chickpeas with the creamy texture of ripe avocado and the tanginess of feta cheese, creating a satisfying yet light meal option. This salad embodies a Mediterranean flair, incorporating fresh herbs and simple but impactful dressing ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

• Quick and simple to prepare: This salad comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or quick lunches.
• Family-friendly meal: Its appealing mix of textures and flavors is great for all ages.
• Great for beginners: If you’re new to cooking, the straightforward instructions will boost your confidence in the kitchen.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, this salad is a wholesome choice.
• Versatile: This dish can be served as a main, a side, or even as a filling for wraps.

Ingredients

• 1 (15-ounce/425g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 avocado, pitted and diced
• 4 ounces/115g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup/75g red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup/50g fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup/25g fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tablespoons/45ml olive oil
• 2 tablespoons/30ml lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon/2.5ml dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Mix gently to avoid mashing the avocado.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Carefully toss everything together until well coated in the dressing, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or allow it to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. That helps the flavors develop even further.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Adjust the herbs: If you’re not a fan of mint or parsley, feel free to try other herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Make it a full meal: Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for a protein punch. Quinoa could also enhance the heartiness of this dish.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Swap the feta: If you’re dairy-free, consider using tofu feta or omitting the cheese entirely for a lighter option.

How to Serve Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad shines in various settings. Serve it as a standalone dish or as a side alongside grilled proteins like chicken, fish, or veggie skewers. It can also be paired with crusty bread for a delightful lunch. For a wholesome meal, create a Mediterranean platter with pita bread, hummus, and olives.

How to Store Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

To properly store leftover Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. You can expect it to last for 3 to 4 days, although the avocado may start to brown. To prevent this from happening, sprinkle a bit of lemon juice over the avocado pieces before storing. If you’d like to freeze it, it’s best to do so before adding fresh ingredients like avocado and herbs, as they don’t freeze well.

Nutrition Information

This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad offers numerous health benefits. Each serving provides essential nutrients including protein, healthy fats, dietary fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 250
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 2g
• Fat: 17g

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just be mindful that the avocado may brown slightly, so you may want to add it just before serving for the best appearance.

2. Is the Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad vegan?
This specific recipe includes feta cheese and is therefore not vegan. However, you can substitute the feta with a plant-based alternative or omit it altogether for a vegan version.

3. Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or even nuts for added crunch.

4. What is the best way to dress this salad?
For optimal flavor, dress the salad just before serving. If you prefer a stronger flavor, allowing it to marinate for a short time in the fridge after dressing can enhance the taste.

Conclusion

Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a standout dish that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition. Its quick preparation and adaptability make it an excellent choice for any meal occasion. I encourage you to try this delicious recipe and share your own experiences. Whether it’s a family dinner or a picnic with friends, this salad will likely become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad

A refreshing and nutritious salad combining chickpeas, feta cheese, and avocado, perfect for any meal occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Salad Ingredients

• 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 whole avocado, pitted and diced
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint. Mix gently to avoid mashing the avocado.
2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Carefully toss everything together until well coated in the dressing, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
4. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or allow it to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to develop the flavors.

Notes

To store leftovers, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Sprinkle lemon juice over the avocado pieces to prevent browning.