Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad

Name: Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Heritage Recipes

I love making this Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad when I want something fresh and vibrant. The combination of sweet mangoes, hearty chickpeas, and zesty lime creates a delightful explosion of flavors. It's a perfect dish for warm summer days or as a light lunch that keeps you feeling satisfied and energized. I especially appreciate how quickly this salad comes together; it’s ready in just a few minutes. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber, making it both delicious and nutritious!

Created by

Juniper Hale

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:32:54.487Z

In my quest for light, refreshing dishes, I stumbled upon the idea of combining mango and chickpeas. The sweetness of the mango beautifully complements the earthy flavor of the chickpeas, creating a delightful balance. I often add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra layer of freshness, and a squeeze of lime brings everything together.

I first tried this salad for a weekend picnic, and it was a hit! I learned that letting it sit for just a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld, making each bite even more enjoyable. It's not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!

        Why You'll Love This Salad
        Vibrant colors and flavors that brighten any meal
Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy bite
Super easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

Choosing the Right Mango

When selecting a mango for this salad, look for one that feels slightly soft to the touch and emits a sweet, fruity aroma near the stem. A ripe mango will have a golden hue with slight blushes of red. If you only have unripe mangoes, you can either let them ripen at room temperature for a few days or opt for frozen mango chunks, which are just as flavorful and cut down on prep time.

Mangoes vary in sweetness and texture, so don't hesitate to experiment! For a less sweet option, try using a green mango, which has a tart flavor that contrasts beautifully with the chickpeas. Just remember that it may require a bit more lime juice to balance the flavors.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing for this salad is just as important as the ingredients themselves. When whisking together lime juice and olive oil, aim for a balanced ratio that highlights the acidity of the limes without overpowering the other flavors. If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or avocado for a rich, smooth texture.

Make sure to adjust the salt and pepper to taste. I recommend starting with a pinch of salt and gradually increasing it until you find the perfect balance that enhances the overall dish. A dash of cayenne pepper can also add a zesty kick if you enjoy a hint of heat!

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad can be served on its own as a light meal, or it can be paired with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. For a heartier option, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice; this not only adds more texture but also boosts the fiber content.

If you find yourself with leftovers, the salad keeps well in the refrigerator for a day or two, although the cilantro might wilt slightly. To refresh it before serving, add a splash more lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil for that fresh, vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

For the salad

1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 ripe mango, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the dressing

Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Steps

Prepare the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro.

Make the dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Combine and serve

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to mix. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short time to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado or jalapeños for an extra kick. This salad also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Meal Prep and Storage

This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can chop all the ingredients in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. Combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy. The dressing can also be made ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator for up to a week without losing flavor, just give it a good whisk before use.

If you're making a large batch, be sure to scale your dressing proportionally. A good rule of thumb is to add the dressing incrementally; this way, you can control how much flavor you want without drowning the salad in dressing.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad with your favorite ingredients. Avocado adds creaminess, while jalapeños can spice things up. If you're looking for an extra crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for added texture and healthy fats.

For an added zing, consider including diced pineapple or a sprinkling of coconut flakes. These ingredients not only complement the mango but also give you that tropical feel, making this salad a versatile option for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, but I recommend adding the dressing right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

→ What can I use instead of chickpeas?

You can substitute chickpeas with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I use frozen mango?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the salad.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it great for those with dietary restrictions.