Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a vibrant, fresh, and protein-packed salad that I love to throw together when I want something wholesome, filling, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect blend of creamy avocado, salty feta, and hearty chickpeas, all tossed in a simple lemony dressing. Whether I serve it as a main dish, a side, or prep it for lunch, this salad always leaves me feeling satisfied and energized.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this salad because it checks all the boxes — it’s easy, nutrient-dense, and absolutely delicious. The chickpeas add plant-based protein and fiber, the avocado brings creamy richness, and the feta adds a tangy bite that keeps things interesting. It takes just minutes to make, and I can enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or on top of greens. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan with a quick cheese swap.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- Avocado, diced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Cucumber, chopped
- Fresh parsley or mint (optional, for freshness)
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
Directions
- I start by rinsing and draining the chickpeas and adding them to a large bowl.
- I add the diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta.
- In a small bowl, I whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic if I’m using it.
- I pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until coated and evenly mixed.
- I taste and adjust seasoning, then finish with fresh herbs on top.
- I serve it immediately, or let it chill for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 3–4 as a main or 5–6 as a side. It takes about 15 minutes from start to finish — no cooking needed.
Variations
Sometimes I add diced bell peppers, olives, or chopped spinach to bulk it up even more. For a spicier kick, I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce. I’ve also turned this into a wrap by scooping it into lettuce leaves or a pita. To make it vegan, I simply skip the feta or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Storage/Reheating
This salad is best eaten fresh because of the avocado, but it will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If I’m prepping ahead, I add the avocado just before serving to keep it from browning. No reheating needed — it’s meant to be enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, I cook dried chickpeas in advance and let them cool before using. I just make sure they’re tender and fully drained.
What kind of feta works best?
I like using a block of feta in brine — it has the best texture and flavor. I crumble it fresh into the salad.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
I add extra lemon juice and toss gently to coat the avocado well. If making ahead, I wait to add the avocado right before serving.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, I prep everything except the avocado, then mix it all together when I’m ready to eat. It holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days.
Can I make this a main dish?
Absolutely. It’s filling enough on its own, but I sometimes add grilled chicken, tuna, or quinoa to make it even more substantial.
Conclusion
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is one of those recipes that I keep coming back to — simple, healthy, and full of flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying, plant-forward meal that’s ready in minutes. Whether I’m packing it for lunch, serving it at a barbecue, or just tossing something together on a busy weeknight, this salad always hits the spot.
PrintChickpea Feta Avocado Salad
Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish made with creamy avocado, tangy feta, hearty chickpeas, and fresh vegetables tossed in a bright lemon dressing. Perfect as a main or side, it’s gluten-free, satisfying, and ready in minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings as a main, 5–6 as a side
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cucumber, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or mint, chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Top with fresh herbs and serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Add bell peppers, olives, or spinach for more variety.
- Use a block of feta in brine for best flavor and texture.
- Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
- Turn into a wrap with lettuce leaves or pita.
- Omit feta or use plant-based cheese for a vegan version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
