Canned Salmon Chickpea Salad with Avocado, Veggies and Lemon Pepper Dressing

Recipe posted in: Flex Meals & Snacks, Lunches & Dinners, Main Courses
Salmon Chickpea Salad with fresh vegetables

Are you on the hunt for a nutritious, satisfying, and easy-to-prepare salad that packs a punch of flavor and health benefits? Look no further! Our Canned Salmon Chickpea Salad, featuring avocado, a medley of fresh veggies and a zesty lemon dressing, is the perfect dish for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe combines and elevates to canned foods, transforming them into one delicious salad. The rich, omega-3-packed goodness of canned salmon and the fiber-rich wholesomeness of canned chickpeas are tossed together with crunchy cucumbers, bell peppers and red onions, then finished with creamy avocado and a refreshing lemon pepper dressing.

Whether you’re aiming to impress at your next lunch gathering or simply seeking a nutritious meal option for your weekly dinner rotation, this salad is designed to delight your taste buds and nourish your body. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this vibrant and healthful salad that’s as good for you as it tastes.

Nutritious and Flavorful Canned Salmon Chickpea Salad Recipe

Introducing a dish that redefines the essence of a nutritious meal without compromising on taste: our Canned Salmon Chickpea Salad with Avocado, Veggies and Lemon Pepper Dressing.

This delightfully refreshing salad serves four and is a powerhouse of nutrients, tallying up to just 285 calories per serving. For those on the Nutrisystem program, this meal counts as one SmartCarb, two PowerFuels and one Vegetable, making it a balanced and guilt-free choice.

Healthy Ingredients for a Balanced Meal

The recipe features a harmonious blend of ingredients known for their health benefits and vibrant flavors. At its heart is a can of salmon, a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, paired with a can of no-salt-added chickpeas that bring fiber and protein to the mix.

The salad is brought to life with the crunch of fresh cucumber, the sweetness of bell pepper and the sharpness of red onion, all tossed with creamy, ripe avocado and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh finish.

Lemon Pepper Dressing: A Zesty Touch

But what truly sets this salad apart is the Lemon Pepper Dressing. A simple yet impactful concoction of lemon juice, olive oil and a dash of black pepper, whisked together, then poured over the salad, enveloping each ingredient in a zesty, peppery embrace. The dressing not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the salad’s nutritional profile, with olive oil providing a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats.

Easy Assembly for a Quick and Delicious Meal

To assemble, simply place all the salad ingredients in a bowl. Then, in a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil and black pepper to create the dressing. Pour this over the salad and toss well to ensure every bite is infused with the delicious dressing.

This Canned Salmon Chickpea Salad with Avocado, Veggies and Lemon Pepper Dressing is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant, nutritious and utterly satisfying experience, perfect for any occasion.

Customize Your Salad: Creative Variations

This Canned Salmon Chickpea Salad is delicious as is, but it also offers a versatile foundation for customization. Whether you’re catering to seasonal ingredients or simply looking to experiment with new flavors, there are plenty of ways to tailor this salad to your taste. Here are some creative variations to inspire your next meal:

Switch Up the Protein

  • Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For a lean protein swap, try adding grilled chicken or tofu. These options can be seasoned to complement the lemon pepper dressing.
  • Flaked Tuna: Substitute canned salmon with flaked tuna for a different oceanic twist. Tuna pairs equally well with the crisp vegetables and zesty dressing.

Vary the Vegetables

  • Add Roasted Vegetables: For a heartier version, incorporate roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts. Roasting brings out a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the dressing.
  • Seasonal Greens: Mix in or substitute the cucumber and bell pepper with seasonal greens like arugula, spinach or kale for a different texture and nutrient profile.

Experiment with Dressings

  • Creamy Avocado Dressing: Blend the avocado with some yogurt, lemon juice and herbs for a creamier dressing option.
  • Herb-Infused Olive Oil: For an aromatic twist, infuse your olive oil with herbs like rosemary or thyme before whisking it into the dressing.

Add Crunch and Flavor

  • Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle toasted almonds, walnuts or sunflower seeds on top of the salad for an added crunch.
  • Fresh Herbs and Spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding fresh dill, cilantro or a sprinkle of cumin can significantly change the flavor profile for an exciting new experience.

Cheese for Richness

  • Feta or Goat Cheese: Crumble some feta or goat cheese over your salad for a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that complements the lemony dressing.

These customizations allow you to refresh this recipe in numerous ways, ensuring it never grows old. Whether sticking to the original recipe or venturing out with these variations, be sure to refer to the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more information on counting various foods.

Servings: 4

Calories per Serving: 285

On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb, 2 PowerFuels and 1 Vegetable

Ingredients:

  • Salmon Chickpea Salad
  • 5 oz. (1 can) canned salmon
  • 1 can chickpeas, no salt added
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • ½ red onion, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon Pepper Dressing
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • Black pepper, to taste

Directions:

  1. Place all salad ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil and black pepper.
  3. Pour the lemon pepper dressing over the salad. Toss well before serving.
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