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Smashed Chickpea Avocado Salad

Smashed Chickpea Avocado Salad
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The Smashed Chickpea Avocado Salad is a fresh, nourishing, and versatile dish combining creamy avocado and tender chickpeas into a vibrant, flavorful salad. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s perfect for quick lunches, healthy snacks, or easy dinners. Quick to prepare and highly adaptable with herbs and seasonings, this salad offers a satisfying texture and taste that fuels your body beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Seasonings

  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Cumin, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste

Variations (Optional Mix-ins)

  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • Chopped celery or toasted nuts for crunch
  • Alternate herbs like dill, basil, or mint
  • Diced cucumber, kalamata olives, and feta cheese for Greek style
  • Cooked quinoa or hemp seeds for protein boost

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas well to remove excess sodium, then pat them dry. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl.
  2. Smash and Combine: Using a fork or potato masher, lightly mash the chickpeas, leaving some chunks for texture. Then add the avocado and gently mash together so everything combines evenly but still has body.
  3. Add Fresh Flavors: Stir in fresh lemon juice to brighten the salad along with your choice of chopped fresh herbs, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you prefer.
  4. Taste and Adjust: Mix thoroughly and taste for seasoning. Add more lemon juice, salt, or spices as needed until it suits your preference perfectly.
  5. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately as a sandwich spread, salad topping, or dip. Alternatively, transfer to an airtight container to keep fresh for later use, ideally consuming within two days.

Notes

  • Use ripe avocados for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
  • Do not over-mash; keep some chickpea chunks for satisfying texture contrast.
  • Add lemon juice early to help prevent avocado browning.
  • Adjust seasonings gradually to avoid overpowering the salad’s natural flavors.
  • Add fresh herbs last and generously to maximize freshness and aroma.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; consume within two days.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to avocado texture changes.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve taste and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: chickpea avocado salad, smashed chickpea salad, vegan avocado salad, gluten-free salad, quick healthy salad, plant-based protein, creamy avocado salad

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/smashed-chickpea-avocado-salad/