Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is packed with heart-healthy fats from the avocado and plant-based protein from the chickpeas, making it not only flavorful but also nutritious. The dressing is bright and tangy with the perfect hint of spice from the jalapeños and cayenne pepper (if you like heat). The creamy avocado and chickpeas offer a satisfying texture, while the cotija cheese and cilantro bring extra flavor and freshness. It’s quick to prepare, vibrant, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

2 15-ounce cans chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
3 avocados (diced)
2 tablespoons shallots (minced)
2 jalapeños (seeded and diced)

Dressing:

2 limes (juiced)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne (if desired)

For Topping:

1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the rinsed and drained chickpeas, diced avocados, minced shallots, and diced jalapeños.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, kosher salt, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Pour the dressing over the chickpea and avocado mixture, tossing gently to combine and coat evenly.
Top the salad with crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
Extra Veggies: Consider adding other fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.
Make it Spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of jalapeños or add some hot sauce or diced serrano peppers.
Dairy-Free Option: Omit the cotija cheese for a dairy-free version, or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the avocado may brown over time.
Reheating: This salad is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is vegan as long as you omit the cotija cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cotija cheese with feta or goat cheese. Both offer a similar creamy texture and salty flavor.

How do I prevent the avocado from browning?

To prevent the avocado from browning, you can toss it with a bit of extra lime juice or serve the salad immediately after preparing it.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked dried chickpeas in place of canned. You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas to replace the two 15-ounce cans.

How spicy is this salad?

The heat in this salad comes from the jalapeños and optional cayenne pepper. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños, or omitting the cayenne if you prefer a milder salad.

Can I add other herbs to this salad?

Yes, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or basil for a different flavor profile.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, the avocado may brown over time, so it’s best to enjoy it sooner rather than later.

What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or a side of rice. It’s also great as a standalone light meal.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can swap the lime-cumin dressing for other dressings like a tahini dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.

Conclusion

The Avocado Chickpea Salad is a simple, satisfying dish that brings together creamy avocados, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty, flavorful dressing. Topped with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh cilantro, it’s a vibrant and nutritious salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. With endless variations, this recipe can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit!