Looking for a fresh and vibrant dish that’s both healthy and delicious? Look no further than this Tomato Avocado Chickpea Salad! Bursting with flavors and textures, this quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a delightful side dish at your next gathering. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a colorful bowl filled with nutrient-rich ingredients that will leave your taste buds dancing. Trust us; this salad is not just a meal—it's a celebration of summer in every bite! Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water to remove any excess sodium and preservatives. This will help enhance their flavor and texture.
- Next, wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Cut each tomato in half and place them in a large mixing bowl. The cherry tomatoes will add a burst of sweetness to the salad.
- Dice the avocado carefully. To do this, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Then, cut the avocado into small cubes and add them to the mixing bowl with the tomatoes.
- Finely dice the red onion. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the diced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the salad. This will help reduce the sharpness.
- Add the rinsed chickpeas to the bowl with the tomatoes, avocado, and onion. Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid mashing the avocado.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. This will serve as the dressing for your salad. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure that all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix to preserve the integrity of the avocado.
- Once combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice or salt based on your preference.
- Serve the Tomato Avocado Chickpea Salad immediately, or refrigerate it for up to 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions ahead of time. Just mix everything together right before serving to keep the avocado fresh and vibrant.
- Choose Ripe Avocados: Make sure your avocados are perfectly ripe for the best flavor and texture. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for an extra flavor boost.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with the dressing by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of garlic powder for an extra kick.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish, or you can enjoy it on its own as a refreshing meal.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The flavors will intensify, but the avocado may brown slightly.
- Taste Test: Always taste your salad after mixing in the dressing. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your palate.Enjoy creating this vibrant salad that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
