Ah, summer! The sun shines, grills sizzle, and the garden bursts with fresh vegetables. It’s a time to celebrate flavors, laughter, and togetherness.
As someone who’s always sought to bring nutritious and delightful dishes to the table, I can't help but whip up my favorite chickpea salad sandwich. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty sustenance and refreshing brightness.
What is a Chickpea Salad Sandwich?
At its core, a chickpea salad sandwich is simplicity wrapped in deliciousness. This delightful creation combines cooked chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing.
It's a satisfying alternative to traditional sandwiches, offering plant-based protein and a medley of textures.
You scoop this mixture onto fresh bread, and voilà—you have a fantastic meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day!
Why You'll Love This Chickpea Salad Sandwich
Let me share why you will adore this recipe. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and utterly satisfying. The creamy chickpeas mixed with crunchy veggies create an explosion of flavors in every bite. It’s so good that you might forget it’s healthy!
Plus, you can make it the night before and grab it on a busy morning.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this chickpea salad sandwich has something to offer. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a meal prep master, and a recipe you’ll want to tuck away for those lazy summer afternoons.
Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun. Here’s what you’ll need for your chickpea salad:
Chickpea Salad
1½ cups cooked chickpeas, well-drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons sesame paste
1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard
½ small garlic clove
1 teaspoon pickled capers
1 green onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches
A small handful of arugula
1 soft baguette, halved
8 to 10 Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Thinly sliced red onion, rinsed and patted dry
Vegan mayonnaise, for spreading
A handful of tender green beans, trimmed
¼ English cucumber, cut into thin slices
1 radish, thinly sliced
6 to 8 fresh basil leaves
A pinch of smoked paprika
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon of olive brine
With these ingredients lined up, let’s dive into making the sandwich!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, preparing the chickpea salad sandwich is a breeze. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpea Salad
Start by placing the cooked chickpeas in a medium-sized bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash about half of the chickpeas. You want a mix of creamy and whole chickpeas to create different textures.
Step 2: Mix in the Flavors
Add the sesame paste, whole-grain mustard, and minced garlic to the bowl. Stir to combine. Now, toss in the pickled capers and green onion.
Step 3: Freshen It Up
Next, throw in the fresh cilantro and drizzle in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This will brighten up the entire mixture. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to your taste.
Step 4: Combine Thoroughly
Mix everything well so that the flavors meld beautifully. Taste it. Need a bit more salt? A touch more lemon juice? Adjust according to your preferences.
Step 5: Toast the Bread (Optional)
If you love a bit of crunch, toast the inside of your baguette halves lightly. It adds a delightful texture and makes the sandwich even more enjoyable.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a layer of vegan mayonnaise on the inside of each baguette half for an extra kick of creaminess. Spoon the chickpea salad generously onto one half of the baguette.
Step 7: Add Fresh Ingredients
Layer on the arugula, Kalamata olives, red onion, green beans, cucumber slices, radish, and basils. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the top before capping it off with the other half of the baguette.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Cut the sandwich in half and give it a little press. This help keeps everything together! Serve it fresh and watch everyone enjoy every glorious bite.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to elevate your chickpea salad sandwich:
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add veggies based on what you love or have on hand. Spinach? Yes! Avocado? Absolutely!
Amp Up the Flavor: Stir in spices like paprika or cumin for a flavor boost. A dash of curry powder can give it an exciting twist.
Add a Crunch: Chopped nuts or seeds can add a delightful crunch. Think walnuts, sunflower seeds, or even some pumpkin seeds.
Make it Spicy: If you like a kick, layer in some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle chili flakes in the chickpea salad mixture.
Serve It Right: Pair these sandwiches with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Information
Chickpea salad sandwich nutrition facts
Can I Store Chickpea Salad Sandwich?
Yes, you can! If you want to prepare sandwiches in advance, store the chickpea salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
It should last about 3-4 days. However, I suggest assembling the sandwich only shortly before serving, as the bread can become soggy if it sits with the salad too long.
What Can I Serve with Chickpea Salad Sandwich?
While the chickpea salad sandwich can stand alone, it pairs wonderfully with several sides:
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries or melons pairs beautifully.
Crispy Chips: Homemade sweet potato or kale chips add crunch.
Vegetable Sticks: Carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers serve as great dippers.
Simple Green Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette complement the sandwich.
Variations
There are multiple ways to enjoy chickpea salad sandwiches. Here are five variations that may tickle your taste buds:
Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese (or vegan alternative), and black olives. Serve on pita bread instead of a baguette.
Curried Chickpea Salad: Mix in curry powder and raisins for a sweet-savory combination. This can be tasty on whole grain bread.
Southwestern Style: Incorporate corn, diced red pepper, and some cumin. Serve with a slice of avocado on top for creaminess.
Hummus Delight: Swap the tahini for hummus and add a spread of roasted red pepper hummus to the bread for added flavor.
Spicy Chickpea Salad: Add chopped jalapeños and a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick. Serve with sliced avocado for cool contrast.
Creating a chickpea salad sandwich is not merely fixing a meal; it’s indulging in a flavor-packed experience that supports a healthy lifestyle.
With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can craft a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also delights the palate. From its creamy goodness to the crunch of fresh vegetables, every bite is a celebration of wholesome eating.
So, fire up the kitchen; it’s time to embrace the chickpea salad sandwich! Make it for lunch, pack it for picnics, or serve it at your next gathering.
Trust me; your taste buds will thank you! Now, let’s gather around the table and share this delightful experience with friends and family. Happy munching!
Ah, summer! The sun shines, grills sizzle, and the garden bursts with fresh vegetables. It’s a time to celebrate flavors, laughter, and togetherness.
As someone who’s always sought to bring nutritious and delightful dishes to the table, I can't help but whip up my favorite chickpea salad sandwich. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty sustenance and refreshing brightness.
Ingredients
Chickpea Salad
1½cups cooked chickpeas, well-drained and rinsed
2tablespoons sesame paste
1teaspoon whole-grain mustard
½ small garlic clove
1teaspoon pickled capers
1green onion, finely chopped
2tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches
A small handful of arugula
1soft baguette, halved
8 to 10 Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Thinly sliced red onion, rinsed and patted dry
Vegan mayonnaise, for spreading
A handful of tender green beans, trimmed
¼ English cucumber, cut into thin slices
1radish, thinly sliced
6 tp 8 fresh basil leaves
A pinch of smoked paprika
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1teaspoon of olive brine
Instructions
1
Now, preparing the chickpea salad sandwich is a breeze. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpea Salad
2
Start by placing the cooked chickpeas in a medium-sized bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash about half of the chickpeas. You want a mix of creamy and whole chickpeas to create different textures.
Step 2: Mix in the Flavors
3
Add the sesame paste, whole-grain mustard, and minced garlic to the bowl. Stir to combine. Now, toss in the pickled capers and green onion.
Step 3: Freshen It Up
4
Next, throw in the fresh cilantro and drizzle in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This will brighten up the entire mixture. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to your taste.
Step 4: Combine Thoroughly
5
Mix everything well so that the flavors meld beautifully. Taste it. Need a bit more salt? A touch more lemon juice? Adjust according to your preferences.
Step 5: Toast the Bread (Optional)
6
If you love a bit of crunch, toast the inside of your baguette halves lightly. It adds a delightful texture and makes the sandwich even more enjoyable.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
7
Spread a layer of vegan mayonnaise on the inside of each baguette half for an extra kick of creaminess. Spoon the chickpea salad generously onto one half of the baguette.
Step 7: Add Fresh Ingredients
8
Layer on the arugula, Kalamata olives, red onion, green beans, cucumber slices, radish, and basils. Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the top before capping it off with the other half of the baguette.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
9
Cut the sandwich in half and give it a little press. This help keeps everything together! Serve it fresh and watch everyone enjoy every glorious bite.
Nutrition Facts
Amount Per Serving
Calories161kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat6.6g11%
Saturated Fat0.9g5%
Sodium114mg5%
Total Carbohydrate20g7%
Dietary Fiber6g24%
Sugars4g
Protein7g15%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some handy tips to elevate your chickpea salad sandwich:
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out or add veggies based on what you love or have on hand. Spinach? Yes! Avocado? Absolutely!
Amp Up the Flavor: Stir in spices like paprika or cumin for a flavor boost. A dash of curry powder can give it an exciting twist.
Add a Crunch: Chopped nuts or seeds can add a delightful crunch. Think walnuts, sunflower seeds, or even some pumpkin seeds.
Make it Spicy: If you like a kick, layer in some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle chili flakes in the chickpea salad mixture.
Serve It Right: Pair these sandwiches with a light salad or some fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal.
Keywords:
Chickpea Salad Sandwich Recipe
Willie Regan
Registered Dietitian & Recipe Blogger
Willie Regan is a registered dietitian and passionate home cook, inspired by the comforting, traditional recipes passed down from his grandmother. Based in Worcester, Willie shares wholesome, heartwarming dishes through his blog Grandma’s Tasty Recipes, blending nostalgic flavors with modern dietary insights. His mission is to bring people together through food, fostering a love for cooking and creating cherished memories around the table.