Easy Chickpea Avocado Salad with Creamy Feta and Zesty Herbs
This vibrant Mediterranean salad combines buttery avocado, hearty chickpeas, creamy feta, and fresh herbs tossed in a bright lemon-herb dressing. It’s rich in plant-based protein and healthy fats — perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or refreshing summer meal.
⏱️ Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
1 can (400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 large avocado, diced
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
¼ cup red onion, finely sliced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh mint or dill, chopped (optional but adds freshness)
For the Zesty Herb Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp lemon zest
1 small garlic clove, minced
½ tsp dijon mustard (optional for tang)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
2. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and mint/dill.
3. Add Feta and Dressing
Add crumbled feta cheese.
Pour over the lemon-herb dressing and gently toss everything together to coat evenly without mashing the avocado.
4. Serve
Serve immediately for a creamy, fresh texture.
Optional: Garnish with extra feta, herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes & Tips
Make it vegan: Use vegan feta or skip it and add a spoonful of tahini for creaminess.
Make ahead: Mix everything except avocado; add avocado right before serving.
Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds, pine nuts, or pumpkin seeds.
Add greens: Serve over arugula or spinach for a heartier salad bowl.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes — just soak overnight and boil until tender before using.
Q: How long does it last?
Best eaten fresh, but can be stored (without avocado) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I turn this into a meal?
Yes! Add grilled chicken, quinoa, or boiled eggs for extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 360 kcal
Protein: 12 g
Fat: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 9 g
Sugars: 5 g