Mediterranean-Style Chickpea and Avocado Salad with Lemon-Olive Oil Dressing

This refreshing and flavorful salad is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean. The chickpeas provide a hearty base, the avocado adds a creamy richness, and the red onion, parsley, and mint add a bright and herbaceous flavor. The lemon-olive oil dressing ties all the ingredients together and adds a touch of acidity. This salad is a great option for a light lunch or dinner, and it's also perfect for picnics or potlucks.

I first had this salad at a Mediterranean restaurant in New York City. I was immediately drawn to the bright and flavorful ingredients, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. I experimented with different combinations of ingredients and dressings until I came up with this recipe. I've been making it ever since, and it's always a hit with my friends and family.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup lemon-olive oil dressing (see recipe below)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, avocado, red onion, parsley, and mint.
2. Drizzle with the lemon-olive oil dressing and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Why It Works

• The chickpeas provide a hearty base for the salad, and they're also a good source of protein and fiber.
• The avocado adds a creamy richness to the salad, and it's also a good source of healthy fats.
• The red onion, parsley, and mint add a bright and herbaceous flavor to the salad.
• The lemon-olive oil dressing ties all the ingredients together and adds a touch of acidity.
• This salad is a great option for a light lunch or dinner, and it's also perfect for picnics or potlucks.