Description
Lemony Kale, Avocado, and Chickpea Salad is a vibrant, nutritious dish featuring tender kale, creamy avocado, and protein-packed chickpeas tossed in a bright lemon and garlic dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a healthy snack, this refreshing salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that nourish the body and delight the palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh kale leaves, tough stems removed, torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (natural)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (natural)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Kale: Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Massage the kale gently with a pinch of salt and 1 teaspoon of olive oil until the leaves soften and become more tender.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a bright and tangy dressing.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the massaged kale, drained chickpeas, and diced avocado. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly while keeping the avocado creamy and intact.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Sprinkle optional red chili flakes on top for a mild kick of heat, then serve immediately or chill briefly for a cool, refreshing meal.
Notes
- Massage your kale to soften its toughness and reduce bitterness, improving texture and flavor.
- Use ripe avocados for a creamy texture without overpowering the salad.
- Drain chickpeas well to avoid excess moisture which can dilute the salad’s texture.
- Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Adjust dressing quantities to balance creaminess and zest according to taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: kale salad, avocado salad, chickpea salad, lemony salad, plant-based protein, healthy salad, gluten free, vegan salad
