Craving a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious meal that takes less than 10 minutes to prepare? Look no further! This Easy Smashed Chickpea Salad is about to become your new obsession. Packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and incredibly versatile, this recipe is a game-changer for vegans, health enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a satisfying lunch or snack that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, 1/4 cup of diced celery, 1/4 cup of diced red onion, 1/4 cup of vegan mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Open the can of chickpeas and drain them thoroughly in a colander. Rinse the chickpeas under cold water to remove any excess sodium and canning liquid.
- Transfer the rinsed chickpeas to a large mixing bowl. Using a fork or a potato masher, gently smash the chickpeas. Aim for a chunky consistency, leaving some whole for texture.
- Add the diced celery and red onion to the bowl with the smashed chickpeas. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well combined. This will serve as the dressing for the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Mix again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Once everything is well combined, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning or add more dressing if desired.
- Serve the smashed chickpea salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy it on its own or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Tips
- Texture is Key: When smashing the chickpeas, aim for a rustic, chunky consistency. Don't over-mash - you want some whole chickpeas for a more interesting mouthfeel.
- Chill for Flavor Fusion: While you can serve this salad immediately, letting it sit in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Customize Your Creation: Feel free to add extra herbs like dill or chives, or throw in some chopped pickles for an extra tangy kick.
- Storage Hack: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy as a sandwich filling, wrap, on top of mixed greens, or as a dip with crackers or vegetable sticks.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
