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Grilled Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Grilled Chickpea Salad Sandwich
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The Grilled Chickpea Salad Sandwich is a fresh, flavorful, and protein-rich vegetarian sandwich combining smoky grilled chickpeas with a crisp, creamy salad mixture, all served on your choice of bread. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, it offers a balanced, energizing meal that is naturally vegan, dairy-free, and adaptable to gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or cilantro), chopped
  • 4 slices whole grain bread (or gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for variation)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Variations and Add-ins

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika (for spicy kick)
  • 1/4 cup mashed avocado (for creamier texture)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts or sunflower seeds (for nutty crunch)
  • Additional greens or tomato slices (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a hot grill pan or skillet and grill for 8-10 minutes until they develop a nice char and crispy texture, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  2. Mix the Salad Base: In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped celery, diced red onion, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Gently fold in the grilled chickpeas. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  3. Toast the Bread: Lightly toast whole grain bread slices either in a toaster or on the grill to add crunch and warmth, which contrasts nicely with the cool salad mixture.
  4. Assemble the Sandwich: Generously spoon the chickpea salad onto one slice of toasted bread. Top with additional greens or tomato slices if desired. Cover with the other slice of bread, press lightly, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Dry chickpeas well to achieve a crispy char when grilling.
  • Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor and add vibrant freshness.
  • Customize bread choice—artisan or whole grain breads add sturdiness and flavor.
  • Adjust mustard and lemon juice quantities to control the creaminess and tanginess.
  • Grill chickpeas carefully to avoid burning and ensure even charring.
  • Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and keep bread separate to prevent sogginess.
  • This salad does not freeze well due to vegetable texture and dressing.
  • Reheat grilled chickpeas gently in a skillet before mixing back into the salad if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chickpea salad sandwich, vegetarian sandwich, vegan sandwich, healthy lunch, plant-based protein, gluten-free sandwich

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/grilled-chickpea-salad-sandwich/