Zoodle, Chickpea & Avocado Salad - Eat Smart Be Well

Zoodle, Chickpea & Avocado Salad
Click to See How-To Video!downloadEmail This Post
Zoodle, Chickpea & Avocado Salad

Prep: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 main or 8 side

3medium zucchini
3 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1/2 small white onion, finely chopped
2 cans (16 ounces each) reduced sodium garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
1-1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
1-1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
1 cup reduced-fat crumbled feta cheese

1.Holding box grater with largest holes facing up, run zucchini along holes to create long strands or zoodles. In large bowl, toss tomatoes, onion, beans, mint, oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt and pepper; fold in avocado and cheese. Makes about 8 cups.


Approximate nutritional values per serving (main):
401 Calories, 17g Fat (4g Saturated), 10mg Cholesterol,
1050mg Sodium, 47g Carbohydrates, 13g Fiber, 19g Protein

Cooking Clues
A mandolin-style grater or spiralizing tool can also be used to create the zoodles.

If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours. Fold in avocado and cheese just before serving.

Add minced jalapeño chile pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little spice.

Dietitian’s tip:
> An avocado’s color does not always indicate ripeness. Ripe avocados will yield to firm, gentle pressure in the palm of your hand. Purchase a firm, unripe avocado if you are not planning to make this recipe for a few days. Unripe, firm avocados can be purchased up to 5 days prior to an event.