Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad with Chili Lime

Craving a vibrant and flavorful salad that’s both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad with Chili Lime is packed with fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, it’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or a quick and easy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Chickpea Salad

Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this vibrant salad:

• Ready in Minutes: This salad comes together in under 15 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The chili-lime dressing adds a delightful kick.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or even as a topping for grilled dishes.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, easily accessible ingredients.
• Simple to Customize: Easily adapt the recipe to your liking with different veggies and toppings.
• Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegan: Suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

The aroma of fresh cilantro and lime fills the air as you prepare this irresistible salad.

Ingredients Needed for Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (425g). Rinsing removes excess sodium.
• 1 large cucumber, diced. Choose a firm cucumber for the best texture.
• 1 ripe avocado, diced. Look for an avocado that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (approximately 40g). For a milder flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for 10 minutes.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped. Fresh herbs are key to this recipe; find them at your local farmers’ market for the best quality.
• 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml). Extra virgin olive oil adds a richer flavor.
• 1 tbsp lime juice (15ml). Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must for that zesty flavor.
• 1 tsp chili powder (5ml). Adjust to your spice preference.
• 1/2 tsp salt (2.5ml). Sea salt or kosher salt works well.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (1.25ml). Freshly ground black pepper is preferred.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these tools on hand for a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience:

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the salad ingredients.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together the dressing.
• Whisk: To emulsify the dressing ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife is needed for dicing the vegetables.
• Cutting board: To protect your countertop while chopping.

Having the right tools makes all the difference. A good knife makes chopping a breeze!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

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This recipe is so quick and easy, you can whip it up any night of the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad with Chili Lime:

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, diced cucumber, diced avocado, finely chopped red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro. Be careful not to mash the avocado.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Lime Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Dress the Salad

Pour the chili-lime dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to combine, ensuring the avocado is evenly coated. Be gentle to avoid smashing the avocado. This is a key part for a nice salad.

Step 4: Let the Flavors Meld

Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step enhances the overall taste of the salad. Letting the salad marinate allows the flavors to fully develop.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad chilled and enjoy! It’s perfect as a light lunch or a side dish. Enjoy it on its own or with some pita bread.

Tips for Success

• Use ripe but firm avocados: Too soft, and they’ll get mushy when tossed.
• Don’t overmix: Gently toss the salad to avoid crushing the avocado.
• Adjust the spice: Add more or less chili powder to suit your taste.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
• Fresh is best: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the most vibrant flavor.

Variations & Substitutions

Here are some ideas to customize this salad to your liking:

• Add Feta: Crumble some feta cheese over the salad for a salty tang.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
• Add More Veggies: Diced bell peppers, tomatoes, or corn would be great additions.
• Use a Different Herb: Try parsley or dill instead of cilantro.
• Lemon instead of Lime: A good substitute if you don’t have any lime on hand.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad

This versatile salad pairs well with many dishes:

• Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
• Enjoy it as a light lunch with some pita bread or crackers.
• Use it as a topping for tacos or wraps.
• Pair it with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea.

This Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad is perfect for summer barbecues and picnics!

Health Benefits of this Chickpea Salad

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

• Chickpeas: Excellent source of protein and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding digestion.
• Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.
• Lime: Provides vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting the immune system.

Enjoy this guilt-free salad knowing you’re nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftover salad:

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Note: The avocado may brown slightly, but it will still be safe to eat.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables will change.

For best results, consume the salad as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Store the dressed salad in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the salad.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or corn to customize the salad to your liking.

How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but the avocado may brown slightly over time.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, this salad is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal products.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 12g

Please note that the exact nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Explore These Other Delicious Chickpea Dishes!

Craving more chickpea goodness? Check out these other fantastic recipes:

• Chickpea Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – A lighter, brighter version of this classic salad.
• Mediterranean Chickpea Cucumber Salad – Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with this refreshing salad.

These recipes are just a starting point – get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients!

Conclusion

This Chickpea Cucumber Avocado Salad with Chili Lime is the perfect balance of fresh, flavorful, and healthy. It’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whip up a batch tonight and experience the magic for yourself!

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