Name: Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich: A Creamy Vegan Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 can Chickpeas (drained and rinsed); 1 medium Bell Pepper (chopped); 2 stalks Celery (chopped); 1/2 medium Purple Onion (finely chopped); 2 tablespoon Brined Capers; 1 tablespoon Dulse Flakes (omit if unavailable); 2 sheets Toasted Nori Sheets (optional for serving); 2 tablespoon Fresh Dill (for garnish); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 medium Avocado (ripe); 1/2 cup Cashews (soaked in hot water for 20 minutes); 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice (fresh); 2-4 tablespoon Water (adjust based on desired thickness); 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard; 1 clove Garlic (adjust to taste)

As I stood in my kitchen, the smell of fresh herbs mingling with zesty lemon filled the air, igniting my excitement for a delightful treat. Enter the Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich, a brilliant twist on the classic “tuna” salad that’s vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for any meal. This recipe is a lifesaver for quick lunches, packing a protein punch with chickpeas while remaining entirely plant-based. With the creamy homemade avocado aioli and the crunch of fresh veggies, it’s not just delicious—it’s a colorful burst of nutrition on a plate. Plus, it’s a versatile option that satisfies not just your appetite but also your desire for wholesome, homemade food. Ready to elevate your lunch game with this vibrant and satisfying meal? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is This Salad Sandwich So Unique?

Flavorful, Fresh Ingredients: The smashed chickpea salad is filled with vibrant veggies like bell pepper and celery, creating a refreshing crunch that you’ll adore.

Creamy Avocado Aioli: The homemade aioli elevates this dish, giving it a satisfying creaminess while keeping it vegan—just what you need to make each bite delightful.

Quick & Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this nutritious meal, perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on crusty bread, grilled wraps, or even as a dip for crunchy veggies; the possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing: This salad is an excellent choice for casual lunches and can even impress plant-based guests at your next gathering. Consider pairing it with a refreshing Cucumber Salad Refresh to round out your meal!

Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich Ingredients

For the Salad

Chickpeas – Base ingredient providing protein and texture; use canned for convenience.
Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch; any vibrant color works best for flavor.
Celery – Contributes crunch and freshness; substitute with finely chopped cucumber if desired.
Purple Onion – Provides mild sweetness and sharpness; green onions can be used for a milder taste.
Brined Capers – Introduces a briny flavor reminiscent of seafood; replace with olives for a different taste.
Dulse Flakes – Adds a subtle oceany flavor; omit if unavailable and try toasted seaweed sheets instead.
Toasted Nori Sheets – For serving, adds a sea flavor; optional if you want to keep it simple.
Fresh Dill – Enhances the sandwich’s freshness; substitute with parsley or cilantro for a different twist.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on personal preference.

For the Vegan Aioli

Avocado – Provides creaminess and healthy fat; best when used fresh to maintain optimal flavor.
Cashews – Forms the creamy base of the aioli; soak them in hot water for 20 minutes if using a standard blender.
Lemon Juice – Adds tanginess; fresh lemons are recommended to elevate the flavor.
Water – Aids in achieving the desired aioli consistency; adjust based on your preferred thickness.
Dijon Mustard – Adds depth of flavor; regular mustard can serve as a substitute in a pinch.
Garlic – Provides strong flavor and aroma; feel free to adjust the amount to match your taste preferences.

This Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich is an exciting, wholesome option that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Step 1: Make the Avocado Aioli
Start by blending together one ripe avocado, soaked cashews, lemon juice, water, Dijon mustard, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a powerful blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once ready, transfer the aioli to an airtight container and refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the smashed chickpea salad sandwich.

Step 2: Prepare the Chickpeas
Drain a can of chickpeas and rinse them under cold water to remove any excess sodium. Then, add them to a food processor and pulse just a few times until they’re slightly smashed but still chunky. This should take around 15-20 seconds. Once the chickpeas are ready, transfer them into a mixing bowl, ready for the flavorful additions.

Step 3: Mix Fresh Ingredients
Chop your bell pepper, celery, and purple onion finely before adding them to the bowl of smashed chickpeas. Next, stir in brined capers and dulse flakes for that extra umami flavor. Use a spatula to combine everything until well mixed, ensuring all the vibrant ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the smashed chickpea mixture.

Step 4: Add the Aioli
Spoon ¾ of the prepared avocado aioli into the chickpea mixture. Carefully fold it in using a spatula to incorporate it while still retaining the texture of the chickpeas. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings with salt and freshly squeezed lemon juice as needed. The aim is to create a creamy, flavorful filling that perfectly balances the chickpeas and vegetables.

Step 5: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the smashed chickpea salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious smashed chickpea salad sandwich. While cooling, prepare your choice of bread, wraps, or ingredients for serving.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Once the salad has chilled, take it out of the fridge and give it a good stir. Serve spoonfuls of the smashed chickpea salad on crusty bread, in grilled wraps, or on toasted nori sheets if desired. Top with fresh dill for a burst of flavor and garnish with any leftover aioli for a creamier experience. Enjoy your wholesome, vibrant Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich!

What to Serve with Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich

This delightful sandwich pairs beautifully with vibrant sides and drinks, turning your meal into a full, satisfying experience.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness and crunch of these fries provide a heavenly contrast to the creamy salad, taking every bite to the next level.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp texture to your plate, balancing the richness of the sandwich with a tangy kick.
Avocado Tomato Salad: A bright medley of flavors that mirrors the freshness of your sandwich while offering a burst of color and nourishment.
Fresh Fruit Bowl: Juicy berries or slices of seasonal fruit create a sweet complement to your meal, cleansing the palate while elevating your lunch experience.
Chilled Sparkling Water: A light, bubbly drink to keep your meal refreshing, cleansing your taste buds between bites of hearty chickpea salad.
Herbal Iced Tea: The fragrant notes enhance the meal, offering a soothing accompaniment that balances the flavor profile of the sandwich.
Simple Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette will add a crisp note and peppery flavor, making each bite feel rejuvenating and nutritious.
Crunchy Veggie Sticks & Hummus: The perfect, colorful dip—a great way to enjoy quick, healthy nostalgia while indulging in a homemade, love-filled lunch.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For a sweet finish, this velvety dessert keeps with the avocado theme and is a satisfying treat that won’t overpower the meal.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, it cleanses your palate and offers a sweet, tangy element that compliments the savory richness of the sandwich.

Expert Tips for Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Texture Matters: Don’t over-process the chickpeas; they should be slightly smashed yet still chunky to give your salad the perfect texture.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the aioli ingredients—adding extra lemon or garlic can elevate the flavor of your smashed chickpea salad sandwich tremendously.
Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and melds the ingredients beautifully, resulting in a more delicious sandwich.
Mix Up the Greens: For added nutritional value, consider mixing in fresh spinach or arugula right before serving to amp up the vitamins in your smashed chickpea salad.
Watch the Salt: Be mindful of the added salt, especially if using canned chickpeas or brined capers, as they can contribute extra sodium to your salad.

How to Store and Freeze Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Fridge: Store the smashed chickpea salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time.

Freezer: This salad does not freeze well due to the creamy texture of the aioli; it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating: If you’ve prepared the chickpea mixture ahead, you can eat it cold or quickly warm it in the microwave for about 30 seconds before serving on your desired bread.

Avocado Aioli Storage: Keep any leftover aioli in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days to prevent browning; add a splash of lemon juice to help maintain its color.

Make Ahead Options

These Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chickpea mixture and the avocado aioli up to 24 hours in advance. Start by making the aioli and refrigerating it in an airtight container to prevent browning. The chickpeas, diced veggies, and seasonings can be mixed together and stored separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the avocado aioli with the chickpea salad, mix well, and chill for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. This strategy not only saves time but ensures that your meal remains fresh and just as delicious!

Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful salad to suit your taste preferences!

Quinoa Boost: Add cooked quinoa for a protein-packed twist, making your sandwich even more filling and nutritious. It brings a lovely nutty flavor that complements the chickpeas wonderfully.
Nut-Free Aioli: Swap the avocado in the aioli for tahini to create a creamy, nut-free version that’s equally delicious. The tahini adds a distinct richness without any allergens.
Spicy Option: Drizzle a little sriracha or hot sauce into the chickpea mixture for a spicy kick. You’ll enjoy a delightful heat that beautifully contrasts the creamy aioli.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like cilantro or basil instead of dill, which can brighten up the flavors, giving your sandwich a fresh twist on the classic.
Olive Substitute: Replace brined capers with Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flair. Their tangy, robust flavor adds an exciting depth to the salad!
Smoky Flavor: Include a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the chickpea mixture for an earthy flavor profile that resembles traditional tuna salad. It’ll take you on a flavor adventure!
Crispy Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for a satisfying crunch. They not only enhance the texture but also add a wonderful nutty flavor.

Don’t forget to enjoy your smashed chickpea salad with fresh sides, like a light Cucumber Salad Refresh or a hearty serving of Lemon Garlic Chickpea Pasta. Happy cooking!

Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich Recipe FAQs

What type of chickpeas should I use for this salad?
Absolutely, you can use canned chickpeas for convenience! Just be sure to rinse and drain them well to remove excess sodium. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use dried chickpeas—just soak them overnight, cook until tender, and let them cool before smashing.

How long can I store the smashed chickpea salad?
You can keep the smashed chickpea salad in the fridge for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s perfect for meal prep! Just give it a quick stir before serving, and consider adding fresh herbs again for extra flavor.

Can I freeze the smashed chickpea salad?
This salad does not freeze well because the creamy texture of the aioli can separate and become grainy. However, you can prepare the chickpea mixture without the aioli ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and mix in the fresh aioli right before serving!

What if I’m allergic to nuts?
No worries! You can easily swap out the cashews in the avocado aioli for sunflower seeds or use tahini instead for a nut-free version. Just make sure to adjust the consistency with a bit of water if needed!

How can I tell if my avocado is ripe enough for the aioli?
Look for an avocado that yields slightly when you press it gently—this indicates it’s ripe and perfect for blending. Avoid those with dark spots all over, as these could mean it’s overripe. If you’re unsure, give it a sniff; it should smell fresh and slightly sweet.

What can I serve with the smashed chickpea salad sandwich?
You have many options! It pairs beautifully with crunchy veggie sticks, pickles, or a simple green salad. If you want to keep it light, consider rolling it in lettuce leaves or enjoying it with a side of roasted sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal!