📖 Instructions

1. First things first, let's get those veggies ready. Grab your firm yet ripe tomatoes and a sharp knife. Carefully slice each tomato into neat, bite-sized wedges or small cubes, whichever you prefer. Place them into a medium mixing bowl. Next, take your refreshing cucumber. You can peel it or leave the skin on for extra fiber and color – totally up to you! Slice it into thin half-moons or small cubes and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes. Now, for the red onion: finely dice about a quarter of a small onion. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain, to mellow out their flavor. Add to the bowl.
2. Time to tackle the star of the show, the avocado! Select firm but slightly soft-to-the-touch avocados. Carefully slice each avocado in half lengthwise around the pit. Gently twist the halves apart. To remove the pit, carefully strike it with the sharp edge of your knife and twist, or simply scoop it out with a spoon. Then, using a spoon, scoop out the creamy flesh into the bowl with your prepared vegetables. Try to keep the avocado in chunky pieces, as it adds a lovely texture. If you’re not serving immediately, a splash of lime juice over the avocado can help prevent browning.
3. Next up, the chickpeas. If you’re using canned chickpeas, drain them thoroughly in a colander and rinse them under cold running water. This helps remove excess sodium and makes them easier to digest. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any extra moisture. Add the rinsed and dried chickpeas to the bowl with the other ingredients. These little powerhouses will add a wonderful protein boost and heartiness to your plate.
4. Now for the dressing, which brings all the flavors together! In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lime juice (this is essential for brightness!), extra virgin olive oil, a good pinch of sea salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. If you like a little kick, a tiny dash of red pepper flakes wouldn't go amiss here. Whisk or shake vigorously until everything is well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – maybe a bit more salt, or another squeeze of lime? Trust your taste buds!
5. Pour the freshly made dressing over all the glorious ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Now, here's the crucial part: gently toss everything together. You want to coat all the veggies, chickpeas, and avocado without mashing the avocado too much. Use a soft spatula or your hands if you find it easier to be gentle. Your goal is a uniform mix where every bite promises a burst of flavor.
6. Finally, it's plating time! This is where you make it look as good as it tastes. Divide the mixture evenly among your serving plates. If you have some fresh cilantro or parsley, a sprinkle of chopped herbs on top adds a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness. A drizzle of your favorite balsamic glaze can also elevate this dish beautifully. Serve immediately and savor every delicious, healthy bite. It’s so simple, yet so incredibly satisfying – a true triumph for healthy eating!