This Feta Avocado Chickpea Salad is a colorful and crunchy dish packed with flavor. It mixes creamy avocado, tangy feta, and hearty chickpeas for a wholesome treat!
Whenever I make this salad, I can’t resist sneaking a few extra bites of that creamy goodness. It’s such a great option for lunch or as a side dish at dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas make this salad super easy. You can also use cooked dried chickpeas if you prefer. Just remember to soak and cook them ahead of time!
Avocado: A ripe avocado is essential for creaminess. If you’re short on avocados, consider using diced cooked sweet potato for a different texture and flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a juicy pop! You can substitute with diced regular tomatoes if that’s what you have. Sweet grape tomatoes work well too!
Cucumber: A refreshing crunch! If cucumber isn’t available, try using diced bell peppers or even some fresh zucchini for a nice twist.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a tangy zing. Goat cheese can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter taste.
How Do I Handle Avocados Without Mashing Them?
Avocados can be tricky since they mush easily. To keep them intact, remember to dice them just before mixing the salad. Here are some extra tips:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the avocado, making gentle cuts to avoid pressing on it.
- Gently fold the avocado into the salad last. This minimizes the chances of it getting smashed.
- If you’re worried about browning, sprinkle a little extra lemon juice on the diced avocado before mixing.
Feta Avocado Chickpea Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Feta Avocado Chickpea Salad will take about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and refreshing dish that you can whip up in no time! Plus, it’s great for meal prepping or a light lunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. Mix gently so the avocado stays intact.
2. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the salad mixture. This adds a burst of flavor!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This dressing will bring all the flavors together wonderfully!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mash the avocado! Use a folding motion to coat the ingredients evenly.
5. Final Touches:
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with any extra salt or pepper according to your preference.
6. Chill or Serve:
You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This little resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Enjoy your fresh and vibrant salad!
Can I Use Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are convenient and just as nutritious. Make sure to drain and rinse them to get rid of excess sodium and any canning liquid before adding to your salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown a bit, but it will still taste delicious! If you want to prevent browning, consider tossing the avocado cubes in some lemon juice before mixing.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to mix in the avocado and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and avoid mushiness.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, try using goat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also leave it out entirely for a lighter option—just add extra herbs for flavor!