As I whisk away the mundane routines of the week, what sparks joy in my kitchen is creating simple, delicious recipes like this Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich. Combining savory chickpeas with the irresistible creaminess of vegan aioli, this dish captures the spirit of whole-food, plant-based eating while being effortlessly gluten-free. It’s not only a quick lunch solution but also a fantastic way to relish a fresh, healthy meal without the guilt. Whether you’re leaning into a busy day or hosting a casual gathering, serving this delightful salad sandwich as a tartine or in crusty bread is sure to please everyone at the table. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s bring some joy back to mealtime!
Why is This Sandwich So Irresistible?
Flavor-Packed Delight: The savory smashed chickpea mixture pairs perfectly with creamy vegan aioli, creating a taste sensation that satisfies.
Wholesome Ingredients: Made with fresh veggies and protein-rich chickpeas, this sandwich is a guilt-free pleasure that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a tartine, in wraps, or lettuce boats to mix things up. It’s perfect for any occasion!
Time-Saving Meal: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the go-to choice for a quick weekday meal or an impressive lunch with friends.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: This recipe checks all the boxes for family-friendly meals, leaving everyone raving—just like our Satisfying BLT Grilled Cheese.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this vegan delight and enjoy the smiles it brings at your table!
Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich Ingredients
For the Salad
- Chickpeas – The essential base for your smashed chickpea salad, providing protein and texture.
- Bell Pepper – Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch; feel free to mix colors for a vibrant look.
- Celery – Offers freshness and crunch; you can swap it with diced cucumber for a lighter alternative.
- Purple Onion – Lends a sharp, bold flavor; red or yellow onions work well as substitutes.
- Brined Capers – Provides that salty, briny essence; omit if you prefer a less salty profile.
- Dulse Flakes – A wonderful optional addition for a marine taste; use toasted nori sheets as a substitute if you like.
For the Vegan Aioli
- Avocado – Creates creaminess in your aioli; make sure it’s ripe for a smooth consistency.
- Cashews – Delivers a rich, creamy texture; consider soaked sunflower seeds if you need a nut-free option.
- Lemon Juice – Infuses bright, zesty notes; freshly squeezed is always best!
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a flavorful kick; adjust to your liking, or use yellow mustard in a pinch.
- Garlic – The aromatic backbone of your aioli; feel free to tweak the amount based on your taste.
- Salt & Pepper – Crucial for seasoning; season to personal preference for the best flavor profile.
Let the flavors of this Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich come together for a delightful and wholesome meal! Enjoy experimentation!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Step 1: Make the Aioli
In a powerful blender, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1 cup soaked cashews, the juice of 2 lemons, 1/2 cup water, 1.5 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 5 grated garlic cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. Blend on high until silky smooth, ensuring a creamy texture. Once achieved, transfer the aioli to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate while you prepare the salad.
Step 2: Prepare Chickpeas
Drain and rinse 28 ounces of canned chickpeas, then add them to a food processor. Pulse gently until the chickpeas are smashed but still have some texture; you want them to be chunky and not pureed. This forms the hearty base for your Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich and should only take about 15 seconds.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the smashed chickpeas with diced bell pepper, diced celery, chopped purple onion, brined capers, and optional dulse flakes for extra flavor. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, brightening the salad with vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, creating a delightful combination of textures.
Step 4: Add Aioli
Spoon in about three-quarters of the prepared vegan aioli into the chickpea mixture. Gently fold the aioli into the ingredients until everything is well-coated and unified, tasting along the way to adjust with additional salt or lemon juice to your liking.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the mixed salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the Smashed Chickpea Salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and enhance, making every bite a burst of tastiness when served.
Step 6: Serve
When ready to enjoy, spoon the chilled mixture generously onto your choice of crusty multigrain bread, or serve in lettuce leaves or wraps. Top with fresh dill or toasted nori sheets, and feel free to add your favorite veggies for a delicious finish to your Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich.
What to Serve with Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Elevate your lunch experience with delightful pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this hearty sandwich.
- Crunchy Veggies: Fresh carrot and cucumber sticks add a refreshing crunch and a colorful side, perfect for dipping in any leftover aioli.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with a citrus vinaigrette brings brightness to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the sandwich.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Soft and sweet, these oven-baked fries offer a delicious contrast in textures while loading your meal with nutrients.
- Avocado Toast: Complement the chickpea sandwich with creamy avocado toast topped with red pepper flakes for added kick, enhancing the meal’s flavor profile.
- Quinoa Salad: A bowl of fluffy quinoa mixed with leafy greens and cherry tomatoes provides a protein boost, perfectly balancing the sandwich’s ingredients.
- Chilled Soup: A refreshing cucumber or gazpacho soup serves as a fantastic starter, introducing coolness to contrast the sandwich’s savory warmth.
- Iced Herbal Tea: Brewed with mint or hibiscus, this vibrant drink offers a refreshing and slightly sweet escape, perfectly balancing the sandwich’s savory elements.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a creamy chocolate avocado mousse. Its rich flavor and healthy ingredients will make the meal memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Fridge: Store the smashed chickpea salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps your meal fresh and ready for quick lunches!
Freezer: While not ideal for freezing, you can freeze the unassembled chickpea salad mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and mix in the aioli and fresh ingredients before serving.
Reheating: If serving warm, gently heat the chickpea salad in a pan over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving directly, as it may alter the texture.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure the aioli and salad are stored separately if possible, to maintain freshness. Mix them just before you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich!
Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich Variations
Feel free to mix and match these variations to make the Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich uniquely yours!
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Roasted Peppers: Substitute marinated roasted peppers for a smoky, sweet flavor that amplifies the taste. Their rich texture complements the salad beautifully.
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Greens Galore: Add a variety of greens like arugula or spinach for a pop of freshness. They bring a delightful crunch and make the sandwich even more nutritious!
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add brightness and excitement to each bite.
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Heat Lovers: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. It’s a fun way to take your chickpea salad to another level!
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Nut-Free Alternative: Use soaked sunflower seeds instead of cashews in the aioli for a nut-free version. You’ll still enjoy a creamy texture that’s super satisfying.
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Crispy Add-Ins: Add crushed tortilla chips or crispy chickpeas for added crunch. They provide a fantastic contrast to the creamy salad!
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Flavor Twist: For an Asian-inspired twist, mix in some sesame oil and chopped green onions. It’s a refreshing variation that dances on the palate!
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Vegan Aioli Options: Want a citrus twist in your aioli? Add a teaspoon of lime zest for an extra burst of zestiness that brightens the whole dish.
With so many possibilities, your Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich can change with your mood or ingredients on hand, making it a delightful dish every time. If you’re in the mood for another satisfying flavor profile, why not try our Satisfying BLT Grilled Cheese? It’s sure to keep the cravings at bay!
Make Ahead Options
These Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chickpea mixture up to 3 days in advance by mixing the smashed chickpeas with diced veggies and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and flavor, it’s best to keep the aioli separate until you’re ready to serve. Make the vegan aioli a day ahead, refrigerating it as well to enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy your sandwich, simply combine the chickpea salad with three-quarters of the aioli, give it a gentle stir, and serve it on your favorite bread or wraps. They’ll be just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Expert Tips for Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
• Choose Ripe Avocado: Make sure your avocado is perfectly ripe for a creamy aioli; unripe avocados can result in a chunky texture.
• Texture Preference: For a chunkier salad, mash the chickpeas lightly. Over-processing can lead to a dip-like consistency instead of a rustic salad.
• Seasoning Matters: Always taste the salad before serving. Adding more salt or lemon juice can elevate the flavors significantly!
• Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld wonderfully in your Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich.
• Creative Variations: Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like olives or fresh herbs to personalize your salad; the possibilities are endless!
• Store Smartly: This salad keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge, so make a batch ahead for easy, healthy lunches throughout the week!
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Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados for the aioli?
Absolutely! When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure without being mushy. The color should be dark green or almost black. If it’s green and hard, it’s likely unripe and will not blend smoothly into your aioli.
How long can I store my smashed chickpea salad in the fridge?
The smashed chickpea salad is great for meal prep! You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep it sealed tight to maintain its freshness, and enjoy it as a quick, healthy lunch option throughout the week.
Can I freeze smashed chickpea salad?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh, you can freeze the unassembled chickpea salad mixture (without the aioli) for up to 3 months. For freezing, place the mixture in an airtight container, ensuring there’s no excess air. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and then mix in your prepared aioli and fresh ingredients before serving.
What should I do if the salad is too dry or thick?
If your smashed chickpea salad ends up too thick, don’t worry! You can mix in a little extra lemon juice or a splash of water to loosen it up and reintroduce that creaminess. Taste as you go to find the perfect consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
It’s a fantastic recipe for various diets as it’s vegan and gluten-free. However, if you’re serving it to guests with allergies, be cautious with the cashews in the aioli—some people may have nut allergies. For a nut-free alternative, consider using soaked sunflower seeds instead!
How can I enhance the flavor of my smashed chickpea salad?
Very! You can elevate the flavor by experimenting with different herbs or vegetables. Add chopped parsley or cilantro for freshness, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a little smoky kick. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing this salad to suit your taste!
Savory Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a powerful blender, combine the avocado, soaked cashews, lemon juice, water, Dijon mustard, grated garlic, and sea salt. Blend on high until silky smooth. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate.
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then add them to a food processor. Pulse gently until smashed but still chunky.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the smashed chickpeas with diced bell pepper, diced celery, chopped purple onion, brined capers, and optional dulse flakes. Stir until mixed.
- Spoon three-quarters of the aioli into the chickpea mixture and fold until well-coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve the mixture on multigrain bread, in lettuce leaves, or wraps, topped with fresh dill or veggies as desired.
