Chickpea Salad Sandwich
“Creamy, crunchy & impossibly satisfying – your new favorite sandwich!”
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices whole grain bread
- Lettuce leaves for layering
- Tomato slices for topping
- Avocado slices (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chickpeas: Drain and rinse chickpeas. Pat completely dry with paper towels. Place half in a large bowl and roughly mash with a fork – leave some chunky for texture.
- Add the vegetables: Add remaining whole chickpeas to the bowl along with diced celery and red onion. Mix well to combine.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture. Add fresh dill and parsley. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Let rest 10 minutes for best flavor.
- Assemble and serve: Toast bread if desired. Layer lettuce on each slice, add generous scoop of chickpea salad, top with tomato and avocado. Close and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chickpea Salad
- Dry chickpeas very well – excess moisture makes the salad soggy
- Leave some chickpeas whole for satisfying texture contrast
- Let the salad rest 10-15 minutes before serving for best flavor
- Add more mayo if you prefer a creamier consistency
- Fresh herbs are essential – dried won’t give the same bright flavor
Delicious Variations
- Curry Version: Add curry powder, raisins, and diced apples
- Mediterranean Style: Add olives, feta, and use lemon-herb mayo
- Spicy Kick: Add sriracha, pickled jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese
- Loaded Version: Add bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and extra celery
- Light Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for lower fat
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sandwich: Serve on toasted whole grain bread with lettuce, tomato, and avocado.
Wrap It Up: Use large flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
On a Salad: Serve over mixed greens with extra vegetables for a lunch bowl.
Meal Prep: Store chickpea salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Add fresh toppings when assembling.