Name: Smashed Chickpea Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons vegan mayo or regular mayo; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love Smashed Chickpea Salad Recipe

It’s super quick and easy — ready in around 10 minutes with minimal effort
Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients like canned chickpeas and a few veggies
Deliciously creamy, tangy and slightly crunchy — perfect whether you want a light lunch, a sandwich filling, or a salad side
Naturally vegetarian/vegan-friendly (just use vegan mayo), making it great if you want a plant-based meal

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 14 oz (400 g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 tbsp vegan mayo
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup shallots or red onion, finely diced
1/2 cup celery, finely diced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1/2 tsp paprika, optional (for serving)

Directions

Add the chickpeas to a large bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until chunky and mostly mashed.
Add the mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the chickpeas and mix until fully combined.
Stir in the diced shallot (or red onion), celery, and chopped dill. Taste and adjust seasoning — you can add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper depending on your preference.
If you like, sprinkle a little paprika over the top before serving — it adds a nice color and slight smoky note.
Serve as a side salad, stuffed into sandwiches, or wrapped in pita bread.

Servings and timing

Yield: about 1 3/4 cups (enough for 2–3 servings)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Use red onion instead of shallots for a bolder flavor
Swap vegan mayo for plain yogurt, half-mashed avocado, or a drizzle of olive oil
Add crunchy vegetables like diced bell pepper or cucumber
Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added freshness
Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of pickle juice for extra tang
Serve over leafy greens, in pita pockets, or with crackers

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
No reheating needed — it’s best served cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

What kind of chickpeas should I use — canned or dried?

Canned chickpeas are recommended for convenience. Just drain and rinse them before use.

Can I make this salad vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe uses vegan mayo, and you can also use plant-based yogurt or mashed avocado.

How smooth should I mash the chickpeas?

Aim for a chunky texture — not too smooth. Leave some chickpeas partially whole for a satisfying bite.

Can I use red onion instead of shallots?

Yes, red onion works well and adds a sharper flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your other ingredients (like mayo) are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs?

Absolutely. Add any crunchy veggies or fresh herbs you like to customize the flavor and texture.

What can I serve this salad with?

Serve it as a sandwich filling, in wraps, over greens, or with crackers or toast.

How long does this salad last?

It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a sealed container.

Can I prepare this ahead for meal prep?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dish and the flavors even improve after chilling for a few hours.

What if I don’t like mayo — what can I use instead?

Try plain yogurt, mashed avocado, a little olive oil, or even mustard for a different twist.

Conclusion

This Smashed Chickpea Salad is a simple, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable dish that’s perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or healthy meal prep. With its creamy texture, crunchy veggies, and zesty flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking for a satisfying plant-based option that’s ready in minutes.

Smashed Chickpea Salad