Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders
Highlighted under: Simple Cooking
I love creating quick and flavorful bites, and these Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are a perfect example! They’re not only packed with protein and fiber, but they also boast a fresh herbaceous taste that elevates the humble chickpea. I usually make these when I have friends over, as they are easy to prepare and can be customized with various toppings. Trust me, once you try them, these sliders will become a favorite snack and party pleaser!
When I first stumbled upon the idea of chickpea sliders, I was skeptical about their flavor and texture. But after the first bite, I was hooked! The combination of smashed chickpeas and fresh herbs creates a delightful mix that feels satisfying and refreshing. I love experimenting with different seasonings to make them unique.
One of the best tips I’ve learned is to let the chickpea mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the sliders. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, served on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings, they are simply irresistible!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Bursting with fresh herb flavors and spices
- Perfectly crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside
- Quick and easy to make, ideal for any occasion
Mastering the Chickpea Mash
The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Herbed Chickpea Smash is to mash the chickpeas just enough. Aim for a mix where some beans are fully smashed and others retain some chunkiness. This combination provides both creaminess and a meaty bite, enhancing the overall bite. Using a potato masher can help achieve that balance effortlessly; just be cautious not to over-mash, or you’ll lose that desired rustic texture.
When mixing in the olive oil and herbs, make sure the mixture is well-blended but still somewhat coarse. The olive oil infuses the chickpeas with richness and moisture, preventing dryness during cooking. If you prefer a lighter version, you could replace some olive oil with unsweetened applesauce, which can still keep the mixture moist without the added calories.
Perfect Timing for Cooking
Cooking the sliders in a non-stick skillet at medium heat is crucial for developing that golden-brown crust. Allow the skillet to heat up properly before adding the patties, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once you place the sliders in the pan, resist the urge to move them around immediately; letting them sit will help create a lovely sear. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when you see golden edges forming around the sides.
If you find that the sliders are browning too quickly, simply lower the heat to medium-low. This allows the interiors to cook through without burning the outsides. Alternatively, if you prefer air frying, cook the patties at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, to achieve similar crispiness with less oil.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are incredibly versatile; you can easily customize them with different toppings. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or dollops of spicy aioli. If you're looking for something a bit more savory, crumbled feta cheese offers a delightful contrast to the freshness of the chickpea mash. I often experiment by switching out the fresh herbs; for instance, dill or mint can lend a different flavor profile and keep things interesting.
For make-ahead options, you can prepare the chickpea mixture a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld—just remember to shape and cook the sliders right before serving for optimal freshness. Leftover cooked sliders can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through, making them perfect for quick snacks during the week.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious sliders:
Herbed Chickpea Smash
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Assemble
- Slider buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Avocado slices
- Your favorite sauce (optional)
Once you have everything, you're ready to smash and assemble!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your sliders:
Mash the Chickpeas
In a large bowl, add the drained chickpeas and mash them with a fork or potato masher until chunky but well combined.
Add Flavor
Stir in the olive oil, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended.
Form the Sliders
Using your hands, shape the chickpea mixture into small patties, about the size of slider buns.
Cook the Sliders
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each slider for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Assemble and Serve
Place your cooked sliders on the buns and top with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and your favorite sauce. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your sliders while they’re warm for the best taste!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Adding some red pepper flakes can give the sliders a nice kick!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to make these sliders gluten-free, simply switch out the slider buns for lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of parsley or cilantro, fresh dill works as a great substitute, adding an aromatic touch. For those avoiding legumes, consider using mashed sweet potatoes or cooked quinoa mixed with herbs and spices for a different take on this recipe.
For a nutty twist, try adding a tablespoon of tahini into the herbed chickpea mix. It enhances the flavor depth and provides additional creaminess. If you're looking to cut down on calories, you can reduce the olive oil or use vegetable broth to moisten the mix without sacrificing taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Your cooked chickpea sliders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Avoid stacking them directly on top of each other as this may cause them to lose their crispiness; instead, use parchment paper between layers if necessary.
When reheating, consider using an air fryer for a few minutes to restore their original texture. Alternatively, reheating in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes will also help revive them, ensuring they remain fluffy on the inside while regaining that crispy exterior. Serve with fresh toppings to relive that just-made taste!
Creative Pairings
These sliders pair wonderfully with a vibrant side salad featuring seasonal veggies and a zesty vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich herb flavors of the slider, making for a well-rounded meal. Another great accompaniment is sweet potato fries, which provide a delicious balance to the savory sliders and add an appealing texture contrast.
Consider serving these sliders at gatherings with an array of dipping sauces. A tahini dressing, garlic mayo, or a homemade tzatziki can provide extra flavor contrasts. This not only enhances the tasting experience but also encourages creativity as your guests can mix and match different flavors according to their preferences.
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 fridge. Just form and cook the sliders when ready to serve.
→ Are the sliders gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free slider buns, these sliders can be made gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze cooked sliders?
Absolutely! Just let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
→ What other toppings do you suggest?
You can try adding pickles, red onions, or even a spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost!
Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders
I love creating quick and flavorful bites, and these Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are a perfect example! They’re not only packed with protein and fiber, but they also boast a fresh herbaceous taste that elevates the humble chickpea. I usually make these when I have friends over, as they are easy to prepare and can be customized with various toppings. Trust me, once you try them, these sliders will become a favorite snack and party pleaser!
What You'll Need
Herbed Chickpea Smash
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Assemble
- Slider buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Avocado slices
- Your favorite sauce (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, add the drained chickpeas and mash them with a fork or potato masher until chunky but well combined.
Stir in the olive oil, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended.
Using your hands, shape the chickpea mixture into small patties, about the size of slider buns.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each slider for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Place your cooked sliders on the buns and top with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and your favorite sauce. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Adding some red pepper flakes can give the sliders a nice kick!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 9g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g