Description
A fresh, vibrant Chickpea Avocado Salad packed with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, herbs, and a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. This nutritious and easy-to-make salad is perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or light dinner, offering a delightful mix of creamy avocado and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 15-ounce cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 3 Persian cucumbers, diced (or 1 large English cucumber)
- 3 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 small to medium ripe avocados, diced (add more if desired)
- ½ red onion, peeled and diced
- ½ cup pitted olives, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley and dill, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon drained capers, roughly chopped (optional)
For the Dressing
- 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced or grated
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon sumac
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse and drain the chickpeas thoroughly. Dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, avocados, and red onion. Chop the olives, parsley, dill, and slice the green onions. If using, roughly chop the capers. Ensure all ingredients are fresh and ready for assembly.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the diced avocado, halved tomatoes, chopped herbs, capers (if using), diced cucumbers, diced red onions, chopped olives, and drained chickpeas. Gently mix to combine evenly without mashing the avocado.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, sumac, fresh lemon juice, and red vinegar until well emulsified.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Season and Adjust: Taste the salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the amount of lemon juice, herbs, and spices to your preference.
- Serve: The salad can be served immediately or chilled for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Ideal as a light meal or side dish.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in grilled chicken, feta cheese, or hard-boiled eggs.
- Sumac adds a slightly tangy, lemony flavor but can be substituted with extra lemon zest if unavailable.
- This salad stores well for up to 1 day; however, avocado may brown slightly over time.
- Feel free to add more fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the best taste.
