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This chickpea salad melt transforms humble pantry staples into a satisfying vegetarian alternative to the classic tuna melt. The creamy, flavor-packed chickpea mixture nestles between golden toasted bread and melty cheese for a comforting lunch that delivers both nutrition and nostalgia.
I created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when fresh groceries were low but comfort food cravings were high. The first time I served these melts to my skeptical family, they disappeared in minutes, and they've been requesting them regularly ever since.
Ingredients
- Canned chickpeas: A protein powerhouse that creates the perfect mash for our vegetarian filling base
- Celery: Provides essential crunch and freshness to balance the creamy elements
- Pickles: Adds tanginess and texture that mimics traditional tuna salad perfectly
- Red onion: Delivers a gentle bite and beautiful color contrast in our mixture
- Fresh dill: Brings brightness and herbaceous notes that elevate the entire sandwich
- Lemon juice: Optional but recommended for that subtle citrus undertone
- Dijon mustard: Creates depth and complexity while binding ingredients together
- Mayonnaise: Either regular or vegan works beautifully for creaminess and richness
- Salt and pepper: Always crucial for proper seasoning to enhance all other flavors
- Bread: Choose something sturdy enough to hold up to grilling I recommend whole wheat for nuttiness
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides excellent melt and flavor but feel free to experiment
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chickpea mixture:
- Begin by thoroughly draining and rinsing your chickpeas, then transfer them to a medium bowl. Use a fork to mash them to your preferred consistency. I recommend leaving about 20% whole for textural interest while mashing the rest thoroughly.
- Combine all filling ingredients:
- Add your diced celery, pickles, red onion, and chopped fresh dill to the mashed chickpeas. Incorporate the lemon juice, dijon mustard, and mayonnaise, stirring until everything is evenly distributed and the mixture holds together well. The mayo should completely coat all ingredients. Season generously with salt and pepper, tasting as you go.
- Assemble your sandwiches:
- Heat a large pan over medium low heat. Take a slice of bread and butter one side generously. Place it butter side down on your work surface. Layer cheese slices over the unbuttered side, then spread a generous portion of your chickpea mixture about half an inch thick on top of the cheese. This sequence ensures proper melting.
- Complete the sandwich:
- Take another slice of bread, butter one side, and place it butter side up on top of your chickpea mixture. The butter sides should face outward on both top and bottom slices.
- Grill to golden perfection:
- Transfer your assembled sandwich to your preheated pan, placing it cheese side down first. This helps the cheese begin melting immediately. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3 to 5 minutes. For faster cheese melting, cover the pan with a lid during cooking.
- Rest and serve:
- Allow your sandwich to rest for 1 to 2 minutes before slicing diagonally. This brief rest period helps the melted cheese set slightly so it doesn't completely run out when cut.
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The humble chickpea truly transforms in this recipe. The first time I served these to my meat loving father in law, he was convinced I had used some special vegetarian tuna substitute. When I revealed it was simply mashed chickpeas, he requested the recipe on the spot. Now its his go to lunch for meatless Mondays.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
The chickpea filling actually improves with time as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. You can prepare a large batch and store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This makes weekday lunches a breeze simply pull out your filling and assemble fresh sandwiches as needed. If taking to work or school, consider packing the filling separately and assembling on site, or pre making and wrapping in foil to warm in a toaster oven.
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
These chickpea melts pair beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich. For more substantial meals, sweet potato fries or a cup of tomato soup create the ultimate comfort food experience. When serving for dinner, consider adding a pickle spear and some fresh fruit to round out the plate with color and nutrition.
Creative Variations
While the classic version shines on its own, this recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have available. Try adding mashed avocado to the chickpea mixture for extra creaminess, or incorporate chopped olives for a Mediterranean twist. Experiment with different herbs basil or parsley work wonderfully in place of dill. The cheese can be varied endlessly try pepper jack for heat, Swiss for nutty notes, or a vegan cheese alternative to make the entire sandwich plant based.
Meal Prep Strategy
For busy weeks, prepare components in advance for lightning fast assembly. The chickpea mixture keeps well refrigerated, and you can even pre slice cheese and store between parchment paper. To streamline even further, consider making several sandwiches at once and freezing them before the grilling stage. When needed, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and grill from cold for a quick meal solution that tastes freshly made.
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This chickpea salad melt is a simple yet satisfying recipe that turns pantry staples into pure comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the chickpea salad ahead of time?
Yes! The chickpea salad can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes for quick assembly when you're ready to make the melts.
- → What type of cheese works best for these melts?
Sharp cheddar is recommended in the original recipe, but other melting cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or plant-based cheese alternatives work wonderfully too. Choose based on your flavor preference and dietary needs.
- → Is there a substitute for mayo in this recipe?
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayo if you're looking for a lighter option. Mashed avocado can also work well, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
- → How can I make these sandwiches vegan?
To make these melts vegan, simply use vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based cheese that melts well. There are many excellent dairy-free cheese options available that will create that same satisfying melty texture.
- → What can I serve with these chickpea melts?
These melts pair beautifully with a side of chips, french fries, a simple green salad, or fresh vegetable sticks. For a heartier meal, serve with a bowl of tomato soup for dipping.
- → Can I add other vegetables to the chickpea mixture?
Absolutely! Consider adding grated carrots, diced bell peppers, or chopped artichoke hearts. Just be mindful that additional vegetables will release moisture, so you may need to adjust the mayonnaise accordingly.