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, drained and rinsed; 1 ripe mango, diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Inspiration

I absolutely adore this Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad, an explosion of vibrant flavors that takes me back to the Caribbean. The combination of sweet, ripe mango, hearty chickpeas, and zesty lime dressing creates a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether I'm hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a nourishing lunch, this salad never fails to impress. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and loaded with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies my cravings.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:14:37.604Z

When I first tried making this Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad, I couldn’t believe how simple yet delicious the combination was. The ripe mango adds natural sweetness while the chickpeas provide protein and fiber, making it a fulfilling meal on its own. I’ve served this dish at picnics, and it’s always a hit!

One tip I found helpful is to chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors as they meld together, making each bite even more delightful. The freshness of the cilantro and the crunch of the red bell pepper really make this salad stand out.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright tropical flavors that dance on your palate
High in protein and fiber, perfect for a healthy meal
Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze

Exploring Flavor Combinations

The balance of flavors in this Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad is truly remarkable. The sweetness of the ripe mango complements the earthy flavor of the chickpeas beautifully. If you want to amplify this dynamic taste profile, consider adding diced avocado for extra creaminess or a small kick of diced jalapeño for heat. These additions can elevate the salad further, making it a versatile dish that can cater to various palates.

For a textural contrast, you might incorporate some toasted nuts, like almonds or cashews. Adding these just before serving will keep them crunchy. The slight bitterness of the nuts provides a lovely counterpoint to the juicy, sweet mango, creating an engaging eating experience as you enjoy the different textures with each bite.

Perfecting Your Dressing

The lime dressing not only enhances flavors but also plays a crucial role in potato preservation and taste. To ensure the best results, make sure to use fresh lime juice rather than bottled. Fresh juice brings a bright, zesty note that elevates the salad. Additionally, remember to whisk the dressing until it is well combined and emulsified, which should take about 30 seconds. This will create a smooth consistency that clings nicely to the salad ingredients.

Another tip is to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper, then taste and modify as needed. If you find the dressing too tart, a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup can provide the perfect balance, transforming the zesty lime into a harmonious dressing that complements the salad.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Mango Chickpea Salad is not just a delightful fresh dish but also an excellent make-ahead option. After mixing the salad, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep for the week. Just remember to give it a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

For serving, consider presenting this salad on a bed of lettuce or alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. The freshness of the salad pairs well with grilled dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Additionally, it can serve as a side alongside spicy mains, as its sweetness will help balance out bold flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious salad:

Ingredients

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, we can start assembling the salad!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your salad:

Combine Ingredients

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

Make the Dressing

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

Mix and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

And there you have it! A colorful and vibrant salad ready to impress.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds. They add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the salad beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If mangoes are not in season or you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting with diced peach or pineapple for a tropical twist. Both fruits maintain the sweet and juicy characteristics that are essential in this recipe. For a variation that caters to dietary restrictions, you can swap chickpeas with black beans, bringing a different color and a slightly denser texture.

If you're looking to reduce the calories or make it lighter, you can omit the olive oil in the dressing and replace it with a splash of vegetable broth. This alternative keeps the flavor of the lime dressing while saving on fat content, making it a diet-friendly option.

Scaling the Recipe

This salad is easily scalable, making it perfect for gatherings. If you plan to serve a larger crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same ratios. Keep in mind that the dressing can similarly be prepared in bulk; just whisk together all the elements in a larger bowl. This will save time when you're in the kitchen, especially if you're prepping for a summer barbecue.

In terms of storage, if you make a large batch and have leftovers, keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve. This will help preserve the freshness of the ingredients and prevent them from becoming soggy. The salad can be mixed fresh on the day of serving, ensuring the perfect texture and flavor for your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the chickpeas?

Yes, you can use black beans or kidney beans if you prefer.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just store the dressing separately and combine when ready to eat.

→ What can I serve this salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good toss before serving.