BBQ Chickpea & Avocado Sandwich

Mashed BBQ chickpeas with avocado in a sandwich.

BBQ Chickpea & Avocado Sandwich:

This BBQ Chickpea & Avocado Sandwich is the perfect hearty, plant-based alternative to a BBQ pulled sandwich. The smoky, tangy chickpeas combined with creamy avocado create an irresistible flavor-packed bite that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Chickpea Filling:

• 1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained & rinsed
• ¼ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Sandwich:

• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 4 slices of whole-grain or sourdough bread (or burger buns)
• ½ cup shredded lettuce or spinach
• 1 small tomato, sliced
• ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
• Optional: Pickles, sprouts, or vegan mayo for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the BBQ Chickpeas:
   • In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher (leave some chunks for texture).
   • Mix in the BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
2. Prepare the Avocado Spread:
   • Mash the avocado in a separate bowl.
   • Add lemon juice (to prevent browning) and a pinch of salt.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
   • Toast the bread for extra crunch (optional).
   • Spread mashed avocado on one slice.
   • Pile on the BBQ chickpea mixture.
   • Add lettuce, tomato, red onion, and any extras like pickles or sprouts.
   • Top with the second slice of bread.
4. Serve & Enjoy:
   • Cut in half and enjoy immediately!
   • Pair with sweet potato fries or a side salad for a full meal.

Why You’ll Love It:

• High-protein & fiber-rich – Chickpeas keep you full and energized.
• Quick & easy – Ready in 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Versatile & customizable – Add your favorite toppings for an extra flavor boost!
• Vegan & dairy-free – A wholesome, plant-based meal option.
• Want more texture? – Try roasting the chickpeas for extra crispiness before mashing!
• Boost the flavor! – Add a drizzle of vegan ranch, tahini, or hot sauce for extra depth.
• Make it a wrap! – Swap bread for a whole wheat tortilla and roll it up for an on-the-go lunch.

Enjoy your meal!