Creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Featured in: Picnic Food

This protein-packed sandwich filling combines tender mashed chickpeas with minced celery, onion, and fresh parsley for a satisfying alternative to classic chicken salad. The creamy dressing features mayonnaise and Dijon mustard for tangy richness. Simply simmer the chickpeas to soften, mash until textured, blend with vegetables and seasonings, then chill to develop flavors. Serve on bread, in wraps, or lettuce cups for a quick, nourishing meal that keeps refrigerated for days.

Updated on Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:04:53 GMT
Chunky, creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich piled high on toasted bread with fresh herbs and crisp lettuce. Save It
Chunky, creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich piled high on toasted bread with fresh herbs and crisp lettuce. | sunnyspoonful.com

A creamy, satisfying vegan sandwich filling inspired by classic chicken salad, this Chickpea Salad Sandwich is packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing. It is a quick and easy main dish that is perfect for anyone looking for a dairy-free and nut-free lunch option.

Chunky, creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich piled high on toasted bread with fresh herbs and crisp lettuce. Save It
Chunky, creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich piled high on toasted bread with fresh herbs and crisp lettuce. | sunnyspoonful.com

This American-style cuisine classic uses simple pantry staples like canned chickpeas and Dijon mustard to create a textured, flavorful filling that satisfies even the heartiest appetites.

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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Easily spray or drizzle oil for roasting vegetables, air frying, sautéing, and dressing salads with controlled coverage.
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Instructions

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, ensure you drain the chickpeas thoroughly after simmering. If you are following a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free bread or crisp lettuce cups. Leftover chickpea salad can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Make it your own by adding diced pickles, capers, or a fresh squeeze of lemon juice for additional tanginess and crunch.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this salad with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or creamy avocado for extra flavor and texture. It works beautifully as a sandwich, a wrap filling, or even as a dip with crackers.

Healthy vegan Chickpea Salad Sandwich served in a lettuce cup, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon. Save It
Healthy vegan Chickpea Salad Sandwich served in a lettuce cup, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon. | sunnyspoonful.com

Whether you are packing a lunch for work or preparing a quick dinner at home, this Chickpea Salad Sandwich is a reliable, tasty, and nutritious choice that everyone can enjoy.

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Toast bread, bagels, and sourdough evenly for breakfast, sandwiches, and quick meal prep.
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Recipe FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply serve on gluten-free bread or use lettuce cups as a fresh, low-carb alternative.

How long does leftover salad keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after chilling.

What variations can I add?

Diced pickles, capers, or fresh lemon juice add brightness. Try chopped walnuts for crunch or diced grapes for sweetness.

Why simmer the chickpeas first?

Simmering softens the chickpeas, making them easier to mash and creating a creamier texture similar to traditional salad.

Is this filling kid-friendly?

Most children enjoy the mild, creamy flavors. Adjust mustard to taste and serve on familiar bread for an easy introduction.

Creamy Chickpea Salad Sandwich

Creamy plant-based filling with mashed chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and zesty herbs. Perfect for quick lunches.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Duration
15 mins
Authored by Lana Bright

Recipe Type Picnic Food

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Recipe Yield 6 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Suitable for Vegans, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

Chickpea Base

01 2 cans (15.5 oz each) chickpeas, about 3 3/4 cups with liquid

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, plus more to taste
03 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjusted to taste

Directions

Step 01

Simmer Chickpeas: Add chickpeas and their liquid to a medium saucepan. Heat over medium, simmering for 10 minutes and stirring occasionally.

Step 02

Drain Chickpeas: Drain chickpeas thoroughly in a colander or fine mesh sieve.

Step 03

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

Step 04

Combine Ingredients: Add celery, onion, parsley, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and salt to mashed chickpeas. Stir until well combined.

Step 05

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add additional mayonnaise or mustard if desired.

Step 06

Chill or Serve: Refrigerate salad covered for 1 hour for optimal flavor development, or serve immediately.

Step 07

Final Assembly: Serve on bread, in wraps, or in lettuce cups with your favorite toppings.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Soy from vegan mayonnaise products
  • Mustard from Dijon mustard
  • Eggs if using non-vegan mayonnaise

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

This nutritional data is for reference only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Caloric Value: 196
  • Fats: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 20 grams
  • Proteins: 7 grams