This Chickpea Salad is a filling vegetarian lunch that is high in protein and contains few ingredients. It takes 5 minutes to make and is perfect if you have veggies in your fridge! Consisting of chickpeas, greek yogurt, avocado, and veggies, this chickpea salad contains balanced ingredients to fuel your body and keep you energized!
Are you looking for the perfect vegetarian lunch? This high protein chickpea salad is absolutely perfect. It is so healthy and contains carbohydrates, protein, and fat for a balanced lunch. You can use it as a dip or spread on bread and make a sandwich, either way it’s delicious!
Why Chickpea Salad is so GOOD
This chickpea salad is made up of chickpeas which are a great source of protein for vegans and vegetarians. Even if you consume meat, chickpeas are great to add in your diet. Plus, they are very tasty!
I add greek yogurt for extra protein since one serving of chickpeas only contain 6 grams. If you are active and lift it is important to receive adequate protein to reach your fitness goals. Greek Yogurt is a lifesaver for that! One serving of Oikos Plain Greek Yogurt contains 18 grams! In addition greek yogurt create an amazing creamy texture.
If you have leftover veggies they are great to add to the salad. I love to add cucumber and peppers! Plus they add more nutrients! I also add avocado for added texture and taste. Avocados are a great source of healthy fat since they are made up of omega 3 fatty acids.
My secret ingredient is a little bit of Primal Kitchens Buffalo Sauce! It makes the chickpea salad a little bit spicy and adds flavor. Primal Kitchen has great sauces that are low in sugar and contain no inflammatory ingredients.
Chickpea Salad Ingredients
- Chickpeas
- Plain Greek Yogurt
- Avocado
- Cucumber
- Mini Bell Peppers
- Tomato
- Primal Buffalo Sauce
How Each Ingredient In the Chickpea Salad Benefits Us
Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein with one cup providing 14 grams. It also contains all essential amino acids except for methionine. Additionally, chickpeas provide varieties of vitamins and minerals and are high in fiber. Plus, they are perfect to add to bowls to receive additional nutrients.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is high in protein and calcium and provides a complete source of essential amino acids. Choose yogurt low in added sugar to maximize health benefits.
Avocado
Avocados have become a kitchen staple more so than in the past and there are good reasons! They are high in healthy fats, fiber, potassium, magnesium, folate, and vitamins C, K, E and B6. Avocados have been found to have positive links to reducing risk of heart disease and are beneficial for gut health and are high in anti-inflammatory compounds.
Cucumber
Cucumber is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals providing vitamin k, vitamin c, and Potassium. It has >90% water content which can aid in hydration.
Bell Peppers
Peppers are a low calorie vegetable that add a lot of flavor. They provide a good source of Vitamin C and beta carotene. Red peppers are actually green peppers that were left on the vine longer and therefore have a better nutritional profile.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are packed with vitamin C, beta carotene, potassium and an important phytonutrient called lycopene, which has been shown to reduce risk of heart disease and cancer. Tomatoes are low in calories and a perfect add-on to many food dishes. Choose ripe tomatoes to maximize nutritional benefits.
Primal Buffalo Sauce
While Buffalo sauce may not sound the healthiest, Primal’s Buffalo sauce is certainly a healthier option. It is made with healthy non inflammatory oils, little sugar, and real ingredients that make you feel good. Plus, it adds a whole lot of flavor to your meal.
Chickpea Salad Ingredient Substitutions
- You can use tuna instead of chickpeas.
- You don’t have to add avocado but I think it adds a great texture.
- Instead of buffalo sauce you can use dijon mustard.
- This chickpea salad can be used as a dip or a sandwich.
- If you want to make this vegan use coconut yogurt!
Try These Chickpea Recipes
4-Ingredient Protein Cookie Dough
Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Description
This Chickpea Salad is a filling vegetarian lunch that is high in protein and contains few ingredients. It takes 5 minutes to make and is perfect if you have veggies in your fridge! Consisting of chickpeas, greek yogurt, avocado, and veggies, this chickpea salad contains balanced ingredients to fuel your body and keep you energized!
Ingredients
Seasonings
Instructions
- Rinse chickpeas then mash in a food processor or bowl.
- Prepare veggies & cut up cucumber, tomatoes, and peppers.
- Add avocado & greek yogurt and mix.
- Add veggies & seasonings.
- Use as a dip or toast bread and make a sandwich!
- Serve & enjoy!
Notes
- You can use tuna instead of chickpeas.
- You don’t have to add avocado but I think it adds a great texture.
- Instead of buffalo sauce you can use dijon mustard.
- This chickpea salad can be used as a dip or a sandwich.
- If you want to make this recipe vegan use coconut yogurt!