For those looking to enjoy the comforting flavors of a classic tuna melt without the fish, Chickpea Salad Melts offer the perfect solution. These vegetarian melts are packed with all the familiar, hearty flavors, thanks to a creamy chickpea salad that mimics the texture and taste of traditional tuna salad. With crunchy celery, tangy pickles, and sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian or just looking to try something new, these Chickpea Salad Melts are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced pickles
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- 1–2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- Small squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (vegan or regular, add more if needed)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices of your preferred bread (whole wheat sandwich bread recommended)
- 8 slices of your preferred cheese (sharp cheddar recommended)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chickpea Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the rinsed and drained chickpeas.
- Using a fork or a potato masher, gently mash the chickpeas until they are mostly broken down, but still retain some texture.
- Add the Vegetables and Seasoning:
- To the mashed chickpeas, add the diced celery, diced pickles, diced red onion, and chopped fresh dill.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise, starting with ¼ cup of mayo and adding more if the mixture seems too dry.
- If desired, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Assemble the Melts:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler, or set a large skillet over medium heat if you prefer stovetop cooking.
- Lay out the slices of bread on a baking sheet or a flat surface.
- Evenly divide the chickpea salad among 4 slices of bread, spreading it out to cover the surface.
- Top each chickpea salad-covered slice with a slice of your preferred cheese.
- Broil or Grill the Melts:
- If using the oven, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If using a skillet, place the sandwiches chickpea side up, cover the skillet, and cook on medium heat until the cheese is melted, then place another slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted, remove the melts from the oven or skillet.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread, if not already done.
- Cut the sandwiches in half and serve warm.
Conclusion:
Chickpea Salad Melts are a delightful, vegetarian alternative to the traditional tuna melt, offering the same satisfying flavors and textures without any seafood. The creamy, tangy chickpea salad pairs perfectly with melted cheddar and hearty whole wheat bread, making this dish a comforting and wholesome meal. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack, these melts are sure to please vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Enjoy this easy-to-make and incredibly delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!