Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Featured in: Quick Lunches

This dish features protein-packed chickpeas gently simmered and mashed to retain some texture. Fresh celery, onion, and parsley combine with a tangy mayonnaise and Dijon mustard dressing to create a creamy, flavorful filling. Quick to prepare and versatile, it can be served on bread, wraps, or lettuce cups. Ideal for a light, wholesome meal with a fresh, herbaceous touch and easy customization options.

Updated on Mon, 16 Feb 2026 06:57:58 GMT
Creamy chickpea salad sandwich with fresh herbs and tangy Dijon, served on soft whole grain bread.  Pin
Creamy chickpea salad sandwich with fresh herbs and tangy Dijon, served on soft whole grain bread. | grillandbites.com

Looking for a protein-packed, plant-based lunch that hits all the creamy and tangy notes of a classic deli salad? This Chickpea Salad Sandwich is the perfect solution. Inspired by traditional chicken salad, it uses mashed chickpeas to create a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and a zesty Dijon-based dressing.

Creamy chickpea salad sandwich with fresh herbs and tangy Dijon, served on soft whole grain bread.  Pin
Creamy chickpea salad sandwich with fresh herbs and tangy Dijon, served on soft whole grain bread. | grillandbites.com

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weekdays. By simmering the chickpeas first, you soften them just enough to achieve that perfect smashed consistency without losing all the bite. It is wholesome, dairy-free, and incredibly versatile for different serving styles.

Ingredients

  • Chickpea Base: 2 cans (15.5 oz each) chickpeas (about 3 ¾ cups), with liquid
  • Vegetables & Herbs: 2 tablespoons minced celery, 2 tablespoons minced yellow onion, 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
  • Dressing: 4–5 tablespoons mayonnaise (vegan if desired), 2–3 teaspoons Dijon mustard (vegan if desired, plus more to taste), ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
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Instructions

Step 1
Add chickpeas and their liquid to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium, simmering for 10 minutes and stirring occasionally.
Step 2
Drain chickpeas well in a colander or fine mesh sieve.
Step 3
Transfer chickpeas to a large bowl. Mash with a potato masher or fork until mostly broken down, leaving some texture.
Step 4
Add celery, onion, parsley, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and salt to the mashed chickpeas. Stir until well combined.
Step 5
Taste and adjust seasoning or add more mayonnaise or mustard if desired.
Step 6
Chill salad covered in the refrigerator for 1 hour for best flavor, or serve immediately.
Step 7
Serve on bread, in wraps, or in lettuce cups with your favorite toppings.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Simmering the chickpeas in their own liquid is the secret to a better texture, as it softens the beans just enough for mashing while keeping them from being too dry. Using a potato masher helps achieve that classic chunky consistency that mimics traditional salad fillings.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Make it your own by adding diced pickles, capers, or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread or serve the filling in fresh lettuce cups.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this salad on toasted artisan bread, in a soft whole grain wrap, or in crisp lettuce cups. Enhance the sandwich with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato slices, or avocado for added flavor and a satisfying crunch.

Protein-packed vegan chickpea salad with crunchy celery and parsley, perfect for a quick lunch.  Pin
Protein-packed vegan chickpea salad with crunchy celery and parsley, perfect for a quick lunch. | grillandbites.com

Whether you are prepping for the week or looking for a quick and healthy weekend lunch, this Chickpea Salad Sandwich is a delicious, plant-powered choice that everyone will enjoy.

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Recipe FAQ

How should I prepare the chickpeas for this dish?

Simmer canned chickpeas with their liquid for 10 minutes to soften, then drain and mash while leaving some texture for bite.

Can I adjust the seasoning to taste?

Yes, add more Dijon mustard, salt, or mayonnaise to achieve your preferred balance of tanginess and creaminess.

What are some good serving suggestions?

Serve this filling on bread, wraps, or crisp lettuce cups, accompanied by fresh vegetables like sliced tomatoes or avocado.

How can I store leftovers safely?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Are there any common allergens to watch for?

Mayonnaise and Dijon mustard can contain soy, mustard, or eggs, so check labels if allergies are a concern.

Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Creamy chickpeas blended with herbs and tangy dressing for a quick, satisfying filling.

Prep duration
5 min
Cook duration
10 min
Overall duration
15 min


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Dietary requirements Vegan, No dairy

Components

Chickpea Base

01 2 cans (15.5 oz each) chickpeas, drained and liquid reserved

Vegetables & Herbs

01 2 tablespoons minced celery
02 2 tablespoons minced yellow onion
03 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley

Dressing

01 4 to 5 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise
02 2 to 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard
03 ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

Directions

Phase 01

Simmer chickpeas: Add drained chickpeas and reserved liquid to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, simmering for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Phase 02

Drain chickpeas: Pour chickpeas through a colander or fine mesh sieve, discarding liquid and allowing them to drain completely.

Phase 03

Mash chickpeas: Transfer drained chickpeas to a large bowl. Mash with a potato masher or fork until mostly broken down while maintaining some texture.

Phase 04

Combine filling: Add minced celery, minced onion, minced parsley, vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and salt to the mashed chickpeas. Stir until thoroughly combined.

Phase 05

Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust salt, mayonnaise, or mustard to your preference.

Phase 06

Chill salad: Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour for optimal flavor development, or serve immediately if time is limited.

Phase 07

Assemble and serve: Spread chickpea salad onto bread, wraps, or lettuce cups. Top with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, avocado, or preferred toppings.

Tools needed

  • Medium saucepan
  • Colander or fine mesh sieve
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Potato masher or fork
  • Silicone spatula or spoon

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult healthcare providers if you're uncertain about any components.
  • May contain soy from soy-based vegan mayonnaise
  • Contains mustard from Dijon mustard
  • May contain eggs if using non-vegan mayonnaise
  • Check mayonnaise and mustard labels for potential allergens and cross-contamination

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 196
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Protein: 7 g