Craving a healthy and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare? This creamy avocado and lime chickpea salad offers a refreshing twist on traditional chickpea salads, making it a perfect addition to your collection of Healthy Chickpea Salad Ideas. You’ll love how simple and delicious this recipe is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas work best for convenience.
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for ultimate creaminess.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens all the flavors.
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note; parsley can be a substitute.
- Red Onion: Provides a gentle crunch and subtle bite; green onions are a good alternative.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 ripe avocado, pitted and scooped out
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on portion size)
- Tools Needed: Large bowl, fork, knife, measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chickpeas
In a large bowl, use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash the chickpeas. You want them mostly mashed but with some whole pieces for texture.
2. Mash the Avocado and Combine
Add the scooped avocado to the bowl with the mashed chickpeas. Use your fork to mash the avocado thoroughly, incorporating it with the chickpeas until creamy.
3. Add Flavorings
Pour in the fresh lime juice. Stir in the chopped cilantro, diced red onion, garlic powder, and ground cumin. These ingredients are key for a vibrant, Healthy Chickpea Salad.
4. Season and Mix
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined and the flavors are evenly distributed.
5. Serve
Serve your creamy avocado and lime chickpea salad immediately. Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, on crackers, or as a delicious side dish.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Stir in a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mix in some corn kernels for a touch of sweetness and different texture.
- Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover creamy avocado and lime chickpea salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad is best enjoyed within 1-2 days, as the avocado may begin to brown slightly. Stir well before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you prepare this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare this salad just before serving, as the avocado can brown over time.
- What if you don’t have fresh lime juice?
You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh lime will provide a brighter flavor.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this creamy avocado and lime chickpea salad is naturally gluten-free.
- How can you make this salad spicy?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
- What are some serving suggestions for this chickpea salad?
You can serve it in a lettuce cup, as a sandwich filling, on toast, or with vegetable sticks.
- Can you freeze chickpea salad?
It is not recommended to freeze this chickpea salad due to the avocado, which changes texture when frozen and thawed.