Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a colorful, nutritious dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. This vibrant salad is perfect for weeknight dinners, quick lunches, or even family gatherings. I first stumbled upon this gem while looking for ways to incorporate more plant-based meals into my diet, and I haven’t looked back since. The creaminess of the avocado, the salty tang of feta, and the crunch of fresh herbs create a delightful medley that’s not only satisfying but also healthy. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking skills. Just assemble the ingredients, and you’re good to go! It’s also budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for college students or anyone looking to eat healthily without breaking the bank.
Additionally, it’s versatile; you can enjoy it as a light lunch, a side dish at barbecues, or a satisfying dinner on its own. The balance of flavors and textures in this salad promises something for everyone, making it a hit even among picky eaters.
"This salad is so refreshing and satisfying! I made it for a family picnic, and everyone loved it!" – Maria T.
The cooking process explained
Making this salad is a breeze, and it all comes together in just a few simple steps. Start by gathering your ingredients, then toss everything together with a tangy dressing. The result is a bright and vibrant bowl of goodness that looks as good as it tastes!
Ingredients
Gather these items for a delicious Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad:
- 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
Feel free to swap out some ingredients if needed; for example, you can use goat cheese instead of feta or add in some cherry tomatoes for extra color.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.
- 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.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately or chill for later to let the flavors meld.
How to serve it
For a beautiful presentation, serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl. You can garnish it with extra herbs or a sprinkle of additional feta on top. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a fantastic addition to any summer barbecue. If you’re hosting a party, consider serving it alongside pita chips or crusty bread for dipping!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Due to the avocado, it’s best consumed within a day or two to ensure it retains its vibrant color and flavor. If you want to enjoy it later, consider prepping the components separately and combining them just before serving. This way, the avocado stays fresh without browning.
Helpful cooking tips
- To easily dice your avocado, cut it in half, twist to separate, and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh into your salad.
- Rinsing the canned chickpeas is essential. It helps remove excess sodium and enhances the flavor of your salad.
- If you like more crunch, toss in some diced cucumbers or bell peppers for added texture.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad to suit your taste! Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor or swap the mint for basil for a different herbal note. You can also throw in some quinoa or couscous for a heartier salad, making it a filling main dish.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this salad?
Preparation generally takes about 15 minutes, which is incredibly quick for such a delightful dish!
Can I substitute the chickpeas?
Absolutely! If you’re avoiding legumes, shredded chicken or even tofu can be delicious alternatives.
How long can I store this salad?
It’s best eaten fresh due to the avocado. However, properly stored in the fridge, it can last for 1-2 days.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time (keeping the avocado separate until serving) for a quick meal during a busy week!
Enjoy crafting this vibrant Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad and add a touch of freshness to your dining table!
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Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A colorful, nutritious salad featuring chickpeas, avocado, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, perfect for quick meals or gatherings.
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
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and chopped mint.
- 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.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
- Serve immediately or chill for later to let the flavors meld.
Notes
To keep leftovers fresh, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days due to the avocado.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: Mediterranean