If you’re looking for a nutritious, protein-packed salad that’s full of fresh flavors, this Lemon Herb Avocado, Egg, and Chickpea Salad is the perfect choice! With creamy avocado, tender hard-boiled eggs, and hearty chickpeas, this salad is both satisfying and delicious. The zesty lemon herb dressing ties everything together, adding a burst of brightness to each bite. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a filling for wraps and sandwiches, this salad is versatile, easy to prepare, and ideal for a healthy, wholesome meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple to make, full of fresh ingredients, and packed with protein and healthy fats. The creamy avocado and hard-boiled eggs add richness to the salad, while the chickpeas provide a satisfying texture and a boost of fiber. The lemon herb dressing is tangy and vibrant, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. It’s perfect for meal prep, as the components can be made ahead and assembled when you’re ready to eat. Enjoy it as a filling meal on its own or as a delicious side dish!
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Lemon Herb Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the ingredients: Drain and rinse the chickpeas, dice the avocado and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the hard-boiled eggs, and finely chop the red onion and fresh herbs.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine the salad: In a large salad bowl, gently combine the chickpeas, chopped eggs, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil.
- Add the dressing: Pour the lemon herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately as a light meal or a side dish. Enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of this healthy salad!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This salad is best served fresh to preserve the texture of the avocado and eggs. Pair it with some crusty bread or pita for a more filling meal, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, add the avocado just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- To keep the avocado from browning, toss it with a little extra lemon juice before adding it to the salad.
- If you want to make this salad more filling, add a handful of cooked quinoa or bulgur for extra texture and protein.
- For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe. Just drain and rinse them well before using.
2. Can I substitute the eggs with something else?
If you prefer a vegan version, omit the eggs and add more chickpeas or some tofu cubes for protein.
3. How do I keep the avocado from browning?
To keep the avocado from browning, toss it with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad, or add the avocado just before serving.
4. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Make the salad without the avocado and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the avocado just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
5. What can I add to this salad for extra crunch?
For extra crunch, try adding sliced radishes, bell peppers, or toasted sunflower seeds.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Herb Avocado, Egg, and Chickpea Salad is a delicious and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of creamy avocado, protein-rich eggs and chickpeas, and fresh vegetables, it’s a balanced meal that’s satisfying and full of flavor. Serve it as a light lunch, a side dish, or use it as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. Whatever way you choose to enjoy it, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
