Sliders with Chickpea Smash

Name: Sliders with Chickpea Smash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 mini burger buns; Fresh lettuce leaves; Tomato slices; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Meals

I absolutely love making sliders with chickpea smash for gatherings and casual dinners. The vibrant flavors of the chickpeas, combined with the spices, create a satisfying vegetarian option that both meat-lovers and veggies will enjoy. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up these delightful sliders in no time. They are not only delicious but also a fun way to introduce plant-based meals into our family’s diet without compromise. Trust me, your guests will beg for the recipe!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:43:34.815Z

Creating sliders with chickpea smash has been one of my fondest kitchen experiences. I remember the first time I made them; I was surprised by how crunchy and flavorful they turned out. I play around with spices like cumin and coriander to elevate the dish, which really brings out the chickpeas' creaminess. A hint of garlic makes a world of difference!

The last time I prepared these, I served them with homemade yogurt sauce and fresh vegetables. Seeing everyone enjoying these sliders was immensely rewarding, and I realized how easy it is to make delicious food that caters to everyone’s palates. I always recommend using fresh herbs for the best flavor!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich flavors from the chickpea smash combined with spices
Perfectly portable sliders ideal for gatherings
A plant-based option that satisfies everyone

The Perfect Mash

Achieving the right texture in your chickpea smash is crucial to the overall success of the sliders. I recommend mashing the chickpeas until they are chunky rather than completely smooth. This provides a satisfying mouthfeel and allows the spices to really shine through. Use the back of a fork or a potato masher for control, and be sure to mix just until combined; over-mixing can turn it into a paste, losing that delightful texture.

The spices in the chickpea smash play a pivotal role in flavor development. Ground cumin and coriander not only add aromatic warmth but also enhance the nuttiness of the chickpeas. Adjust these spices based on your preference; for a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder. Remember, it's always good to taste as you go, so feel free to tweak according to your palate!

Bun Choices and Variations

When selecting mini burger buns, consider whole-grain or gluten-free options for added nutrition and dietary needs. Whole-grain buns offer a hearty texture that complements the chickpea smash wonderfully. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, look for certified gluten-free buns to ensure everyone can enjoy the sliders without worry. You can also opt for lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb alternative.

To elevate your sliders, experiment with additional toppings such as pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick or shredded carrots for crunch. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile and can make these sliders even more enjoyable. Don't hesitate to get creative with sauces as well— a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of yogurt sauce can add a fantastic zesty twist!

Ingredients for Sliders with Chickpea Smash

For the Chickpea Smash

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

4 mini burger buns
Fresh lettuce leaves
Tomato slices
Avocado slices

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Make the Chickpea Smash

In a mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork until chunky. Stir in the red onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Mix until combined but still slightly chunky.

Assemble the Sliders

Cut the mini buns in half and layer lettuce, a generous scoop of the chickpea smash, tomato slices, and avocado on the bottom half of the bun. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve sliders with a side of your favorite sauce or dipping option, and enjoy a delightful, plant-based treat!

Enjoy Your Sliders!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider toasting the mini burger buns before assembling. You can also switch up the toppings based on your preferences. Adding a slice of cheese or spicy sauce can elevate the taste to your liking.

Make-Ahead Tips

The chickpea smash can be made ahead of time, which makes these sliders an excellent choice for hosting. Prepare the mash a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will only improve as the flavors meld together. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the sliders fresh, which takes just minutes.

If you want to pack the sliders for a picnic or lunch, consider transporting the components separately. Place the mash, toppings, and buns in separate containers to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess. This way, your sliders stay delicious and presentable until it’s time to dig in!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover chickpea smash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to keep it in a tightly sealed container to maintain moisture. You can also freeze the mash for longer storage. When freezing, portion it out into smaller containers or bags for easy reheating. This will keep the smash fresh for up to two months.

To reheat frozen chickpea smash, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if necessary to restore creaminess. This will not only make it easier to spread on your buns but also reclaim some of its original flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chickpea smash in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the sliders just before serving.

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just cook and mash them thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients.

→ What are good toppings for these sliders?

You can top them with various options like sliced pickles, spicy sauce, or even cheese if you prefer.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep any leftover chickpea smash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The assembled sliders are best eaten fresh.