Spicy Chickpea-Avocado Smash Sandwich

Backstory: A fast, protein-packed sandwich inspired by Mediterranean flavors and a little heat—ready in about 15 minutes for a satisfying post-work lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (about ½ lemon)
• 1–2 tsp Sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or plain dairy-free yogurt (optional for creaminess)
• 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion or green onion
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices good sandwich bread or 2 crusty rolls (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 cup mixed salad greens or baby spinach
• 4–6 thin tomato slices
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter for toasting (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast the bread or rolls lightly while you make the filling.
2. In a medium bowl, roughly mash the chickpeas with a fork—leave some texture (about 6–8 quick mashes).
3. Halve and scoop the avocado into the bowl; mash together with the chickpeas until well combined but still chunky.
4. Stir in minced garlic, lemon juice, Sriracha, yogurt (if using), chopped onion, cilantro/parsley, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust lemon, heat, or salt.
5. If desired, lightly oil or butter the toasted bread and layer greens on one slice, then spread a generous amount of the chickpea-avocado smash.
6. Top with tomato slices, additional greens if you like, and close the sandwich. Slice in half.

Flavor profile: Bright and creamy from avocado and lemon, smoky-warm cumin, garlicky savory notes, with a spicy kick from Sriracha and fresh herb brightness.

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