How to Make Corn and Chickpea Salad for a High-Protein Side Dish

Why Choose Corn and Chickpea Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups chickpeas, cooked (or canned, rinsed, and drained)

• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or frozen and thawed)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 medium cucumber, diced

• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1 medium avocado, diced (optional for creaminess)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Juice of 2 lemons

• 1 tsp cumin or smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

1. Prepare chickpeas: If using canned, rinse and drain. If using dried, soak overnight and cook until tender.

1. Cook or grill corn: Boil for 3–5 minutes or grill until lightly charred, then cut kernels off the cob.

1. Chop vegetables: Dice cucumber, onion, avocado, and halve cherry tomatoes.

1. Make dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.

1. Combine: In a large bowl, mix chickpeas, corn, and vegetables. Pour over dressing and toss well.

1. Serve: Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve chilled.

Flavor Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add feta cheese, olives, and oregano.

• Mexican-Inspired: Toss in jalapeños, cotija cheese, and cilantro.

• Vegan Protein Boost: Add quinoa, tofu cubes, or roasted chickpeas.

• Spicy Version: Mix in sriracha or chili flakes for heat.

• Herb-Loaded: Use fresh basil, dill, or mint for a refreshing twist.

Health Benefits of Corn and Chickpea Salad

• High in protein: Chickpeas provide plant-based protein, great for muscle repair and satiety.

• Fiber-rich: Supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar.

• Low in fat: A light dressing keeps the salad heart-healthy.

• Loaded with vitamins: Corn, tomatoes, and cucumbers supply vitamins A, C, and K.

• Weight-friendly: Filling yet low in calories, perfect for balanced diets.

• Use fresh ingredients: Seasonal corn and ripe tomatoes make a huge difference.

• Grill for flavor: Grilled corn adds smoky depth.

• Chill before serving: Refrigerate for 20 minutes to let flavors blend.

• Add avocado last: To prevent browning if making ahead.

• Balance flavors: Sweet corn, creamy avocado, and tangy lemon juice work beautifully together.

• As a side dish for BBQs, tacos, or grilled meats.

• As a main salad bowl with quinoa or rice.

• As a taco or burrito filling.

• As a healthy lunch with whole-grain pita or flatbread.

• As part of weekly meal prep for quick dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes! Just rinse and drain them well to remove excess sodium.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but add avocado and dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.

Is this salad vegan?
Yes, it’s 100% vegan unless you add cheese or chicken as optional extras.

How much protein is in one serving?
About 14–16g per serving with chickpeas and corn. Add quinoa or chicken to increase protein.
Printable Recipe Card

Corn and Chickpea Salad (High-Protein Side Dish)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 cups chickpeas
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cucumber
- 1/2 cup red onion
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 cup parsley or cilantro
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper

Instructions:

1. Rinse and drain chickpeas.
2. Grill or boil corn, cut kernels off.
3. Dice vegetables and avocado.
4. Whisk dressing with olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
6. Garnish with herbs and serve chilled.

Final Thoughts

Corn and chickpeas are a powerful combination. Corn brings natural sweetness and crunch, while chickpeas provide a hearty dose of plant-based protein and fiber. Together, they make a salad that is satisfying, colorful, and full of flavor.

Unlike heavy sides, this salad is light yet filling, making it ideal for BBQs, family dinners, or healthy meal prep. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and customizable with your favorite herbs and toppings.

Here are the ingredients for a classic protein-packed corn and chickpea salad:

Optional add-ins: feta cheese, olives, quinoa, or grilled chicken for extra protein.

Follow these simple steps to make your high-protein chickpea and corn salad:

Once you master the basics, try these creative variations of corn and chickpea salad:

This protein-packed salad is as healthy as it is tasty:

This corn and chickpea salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways: