This Feta Avocado Chickpea Salad is fresh and vibrant! It mixes creamy avocado, salty feta, and hearty chickpeas for a tasty combo that’s just bursting with flavor.
Make it in a jiffy for lunch or as a side dish. It’s like a party in a bowl! I always make extra because it disappears quickly—who can resist that mix? 🥑✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are super convenient and add protein to the salad. If you prefer, you can also cook dried chickpeas. Just soak them overnight and boil until tender. You can use other beans like black beans or kidney beans as a tasty alternative too!
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you don’t have avocado, try using cooked sweet potatoes or even a scoop of hummus for a different texture. Just make sure to adjust the flavor with a little extra lemon juice to keep things fresh.
Tomatoes: I love using cherry tomatoes for sweetness, but any fresh tomatoes will work. If tomatoes are out of season, sun-dried tomatoes could be a flavorful replacement.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a salty kick! If you need to avoid dairy, try using vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Cotija cheese is another good substitute if you want a different tang.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a classic choice, but any mild oil like canola or avocado oil works. If you want to add more flavor, try flavored olive oils or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
How Do You Properly Toss a Salad Without Mashing Ingredients?
Tossing a salad without mashing can be tricky, especially with soft ingredients like avocado. Here’s how to do it gently:
- First, mix the chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions well in your bowl.
- Then, add the diced avocado and feta last to keep them intact.
- Use a large spoon or salad tongs and lift the ingredients from the bottom, folding them over instead of stirring.
- Be slow and gentle as you combine everything, so the avocado remains chunky.
All these steps will help keep your salad looking fresh and appealing, while still mixing in all those delightful flavors!
Feta Avocado Chickpea Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas: drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado: peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes: halved
- 1/4 cup red onion: finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese: crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley: chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove: minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare—quick and easy! If you choose to chill it for better flavor, add an additional 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, diced avocado, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion if you’re using it. This colorful mix is the heart of your salad!
2. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top of the mixture. The feta adds a salty creaminess that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic powder or minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper. This simple dressing will brighten up the salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together using a large spoon or salad tongs—be careful not to mash the avocado. You want everything well-coated but still nice and chunky!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference. It should be tangy, fresh, and delicious!
6. Serve or Chill:
Enjoy the salad right away for a fresh crunch, or chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Either way, it’s a delightful dish perfect for a light meal or a side!
Enjoy your Feta Avocado Chickpea Salad! 🥗✨
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas or Dried Chickpeas?
Canned chickpeas are super convenient and save time! Just remember to drain and rinse them well before using. If you want to use dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender. They’ll add a lovely texture to your salad!
How Do You Prevent Avocado from Browning?
To keep your avocado from browning, try to cut it just before serving. If making ahead, you can sprinkle a little extra lemon juice over the avocado and cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap. This helps reduce oxidation!
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize! You can add ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, corn, or even olives for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the dressing slightly if adding more ingredients.
How To Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be tasty. Give it a gentle stir before eating to refresh the flavors!