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Chickpea Salad Sandwich

This recipe offers a quick and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional deli salads. Rinsed chickpeas are mashed and combined with crisp celery, briny capers, and a creamy lemon-Dijon dressing. Served on your favorite sandwich bread with fresh avocado, toasted almonds, tomato, and greens, it creates a flavorful, textured, and wholesome meal perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
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Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 1512.2
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 15-ounce can chickpeas , rinsed and drained
  • 2 ribs celery diced
  • 2 tablespoons capers rinsed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 pinches black pepper
  • 4 slices sandwich bread
  • 1/2 avocado
  • 2 tablespoons roasted almonds coarsely chopped
  • 2 to 4 tomato slices
  • Handful watercress or other greens such as lettuce, arugula, or spinach

Equipment

  • 1 Medium Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Fork or potato masher For mashing chickpeas
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef's Knife For dicing and slicing
  • 1 Measuring Spoons

Method
 

  1. Rinse and drain the canned chickpeas thoroughly. In a medium bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the chickpeas until mostly broken down but still retaining some texture.
  2. Finely dice the celery and rinse and drain the capers. Add them to the bowl with the mashed chickpeas.
  3. Add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to the chickpea mixture.
  4. Stir all ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference.
  5. Prepare your sandwich bread. For extra texture, you may lightly toast the bread slices.
  6. Slice the avocado and tomato. Coarsely chop the roasted almonds.
  7. Spread an even layer of the chickpea salad mixture onto two slices of sandwich bread.
  8. Top the chickpea salad with sliced avocado, chopped roasted almonds, tomato slices, and a handful of watercress or other greens.
  9. Place the remaining two slices of bread on top to complete the sandwiches.
  10. Serve immediately, or slice in half if desired.

Notes

For optimal texture, mash the chickpeas only partially, leaving some whole for a satisfying bite. The capers provide a briny counterpoint; ensure they are thoroughly rinsed to control saltiness. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley would elevate the flavor profile, adding brightness. Consider toasting your sandwich bread to add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling. If preparing in advance, assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy, especially with the avocado. Adjust lemon juice and seasonings to personal preference, as balance is key in this simple yet flavorful dish.