Crispy Chickpea Sliders
Highlighted under: Speedy Kitchen Ideas
I absolutely love whipping up these Crispy Chickpea Sliders for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend get-together. They’re incredibly versatile, too! Whether if you serve them on a classic bun or over a fresh salad, everyone is bound to love them. The combination of spices, crispy texture, and the creamy avocado sauce truly elevate this dish. What I appreciate most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy days when you still want something delicious!
Creating these Crispy Chickpea Sliders was a delightful adventure for me in the kitchen. I wanted something healthy yet satisfying, and chickpeas turned out to be the perfect canvas. I blended in spices and a touch of garlic to really bring out the flavors. The real game-changer, however, was the method of baking rather than frying them, which not only makes them healthier but also gives them that wonderful crunch!
I remember the first time I served these sliders at a picnic. Everyone was amazed that they were made from chickpeas! I learned that adding a bit of breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture without compromising the texture. Pairing them with delicious avocado sauce truly makes them irresistible. I'm excited for you to try this recipe!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce
- Packed with protein and fiber, making them healthy and filling
- Fun and customizable toppings to suit everyone's tastes
The Role of Chickpeas in the Sliders
Chickpeas are the cornerstone of these sliders, providing not only a satisfying texture but also a healthy dose of protein and fiber. When mashing the chickpeas, aim for a mix of smooth and chunky textures; this contrast enhances both the mouthfeel and structural integrity of the patties. If you prefer a finer blend, you could pulse the chickpeas in a food processor instead of mashing them by hand, but take care not to puree them completely. This blend creates that sought-after crispy outer layer while keeping the inside moist.
In addition to their taste and health benefits, chickpeas are incredibly versatile. If you want to switch things up, consider using canned white beans or lentils instead. These alternatives will still yield delicious sliders, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. Remember that if using dried beans, they should be cooked until tender, cooled, and then mashed before adding to the mix.
Perfecting the Avocado Sauce
The avocado sauce is more than just a creamy topping; it adds a fresh, zesty element that compliments the sliders beautifully. To achieve the best consistency, ensure that your avocado is perfectly ripe; it should yield slightly when pressed. After mashing with lemon juice and salt, taste the mixture and adjust as needed. A sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor if you're looking for a more pronounced kick.
If you're concerned about browning, consider adding a touch of extra lemon juice. The acidity helps preserve the vibrant green color of the sauce. Alternatively, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed against the surface to minimize exposure to air. This can last in the fridge for up to two days, but it's always best served fresh when it’s at its creamiest.
Creative Serving Suggestions
While these sliders shine on traditional buns, they can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them over a bed of mixed greens for a healthier option, or use lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. Consider pairing your sliders with pickled red onions or sliced cucumbers for an extra crunch and freshness. You could even set up a slider bar with various toppings — think sliced tomatoes, sprouts, or different types of cheese — to let everyone customize their meal.
If you have toppings or sliders left over, they freeze beautifully. Shape the uncooked sliders and freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This not only saves you time on busy nights but also gives you a quick and healthy meal option ready to go.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Chickpea Sliders
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Olive oil for baking
For the Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Feel free to customize these sliders with your choice of buns or fresh toppings!
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture. Add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
Form the Sliders
Shape the mixture into patties. You should get about 4 sliders. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Sliders
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly drizzle olive oil over the patties. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crisp, flipping halfway through.
Prepare the Avocado Sauce
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice and a pinch of salt until creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Sliders
Place each chickpea slider on a bun or salad bed. Top with avocado sauce and your favorite toppings, then serve!
Enjoy these delicious sliders warm for the best flavor!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or finely chopped jalapeños into the chickpea mixture before baking. Both variations can bring a delightful twist to your sliders.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chickpea sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat them, pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain their crispiness compared to using a microwave.
If you have extra avocado sauce, transfer it to a clean container and press a piece of plastic wrap against the surface to prevent browning. It should stay fresh for another day or two, but it's best used right after making for the best flavor and texture.
Scaling the Recipe
Easily scale the recipe up or down depending on your needs. For smaller batches, you can halve the ingredients while maintaining the same proportions. If you’re planning for a crowd, try doubling the recipe. When making larger quantities, consider baking the sliders on multiple trays to ensure they cook evenly and retain their crispiness.
For a party setting, consider offering different flavorings within the chickpea mixture—experiment with different herbs and spices like cilantro, coriander, or even a hint of curry powder—to keep things exciting and cater to various palates.
Variations to Explore
Get creative with flavor! Try adding finely grated carrots or zucchini to the chickpea mixture for added nutrition and moisture. These veggies cook down nicely and blend in, enhancing both the texture and color of the sliders.
Additionally, for a bit of smokiness, you can substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika. This simple change can take the flavor profile to a whole new level, making your sliders even more exciting.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chickpea mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use oats or ground flaxseed as gluten-free alternatives.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can these sliders be frozen?
Absolutely! They can be frozen before baking. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen.
Crispy Chickpea Sliders
I absolutely love whipping up these Crispy Chickpea Sliders for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend get-together. They’re incredibly versatile, too! Whether if you serve them on a classic bun or over a fresh salad, everyone is bound to love them. The combination of spices, crispy texture, and the creamy avocado sauce truly elevate this dish. What I appreciate most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy days when you still want something delicious!
What You'll Need
For the Chickpea Sliders
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Olive oil for baking
For the Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture. Add breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into patties. You should get about 4 sliders. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly drizzle olive oil over the patties. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and crisp, flipping halfway through.
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice and a pinch of salt until creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Place each chickpea slider on a bun or salad bed. Top with avocado sauce and your favorite toppings, then serve!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese or finely chopped jalapeños into the chickpea mixture before baking. Both variations can bring a delightful twist to your sliders.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 9g