Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders

Name: Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slider buns; Sliced cucumber; Sliced tomato; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love how versatile chickpeas can be, and these Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are one of my favorite creations. They come together in just minutes and pack a punch of flavor with fresh herbs and spices. I usually make them for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack when I’m craving something hearty yet healthy. The best part is customizing the toppings to my family’s preferences, making it a fun activity to share. Get ready for a delightful bite that’s nutritious and delicious!

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:05:35.486Z

My journey with chickpeas began a few years ago when I stumbled across a hummus recipe that changed my view on legumes. Ever since then, I've been experimenting with them in various forms, including these sliders. I love the combination of textures: a creamy chickpea smash nestled between soft buns gives an exciting contrast that’s so satisfying.

What makes these sliders truly special is the addition of fresh herbs. I often use basil and parsley from my garden, which not only adds a vibrant color but also enhances the flavor profile immensely. Trust me, always opt for fresh over dried when you can; the difference is phenomenal!

Why You'll Love These Sliders
Bursting with fresh herb flavors
Quick and easy to prepare
Nutrient-dense and satisfying

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these sliders is the chickpeas, which provide a hearty base and are also a fantastic source of protein and fiber. When mashing chickpeas, a fork or potato masher works well for achieving a textured yet smooth consistency, ensuring you don’t over-mash them into a puree. The garlic brings depth, while the fresh herbs—parsley and basil—add brightness and freshness, elevating the overall flavor. Don’t skip the lemon juice; it balances the richness of the chickpeas and herbs beautifully.

When selecting your slider buns, look for whole grain or sourdough varieties for added flavor and nutrients. Whole wheat buns offer more fiber, enhancing the health aspect of your meal. If you're gluten-free, opt for gluten-free slider buns or even lettuce wraps for a fresh twist. Each of these choices changes the flavor profile of your sliders, making it a fun way to switch things up.

Techniques for Perfect Sliders

As you mash the chickpeas, aim for about 80% smoothness; some texture is necessary for a satisfying bite. If your beans are too smooth, the sliders may turn out mushy. A good consistency to aim for is similar to chunky guacamole. If you find the mixture too dry, you can add a touch more olive oil or a splash of water until it reaches your desired texture.

When assembling the sliders, I recommend using a generous amount of the chickpea smash to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Layering the toppings is also key—sliced cucumbers add crisp freshness, while tomatoes contribute juiciness and vibrant color. For avocado lovers, adding a sprinkle of salt on the slices before placing them on top can enhance their flavor and prevent browning prior to serving.

Ingredients

For the Chickpea Smash

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

4 slider buns
Sliced cucumber
Sliced tomato
Avocado slices

Add your favorite toppings to enhance the flavor and texture!

Instructions

Prepare the Chickpea Smash

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Mix in garlic, parsley, basil, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread a generous amount of the chickpea smash on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with cucumber, tomato, and avocado slices. Place the top half of the bun on each slider.

Serve

Enjoy immediately or serve with a side salad for a complete meal!

These sliders are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for a quick lunch option later!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your sliders with other veggies or sauces for extra flavor. Adding a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the creaminess!

Make-Ahead Tips

These Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chickpea smash a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning from oxidation. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the sliders at your convenience.

If you have leftover chickpea mixture, it can also be used as a spread on toast or in wraps later in the week. Just remember to check the consistency—it can thicken in the fridge, so a dash of olive oil or water can help perk it back up.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders can be enhanced with various toppings based on your preference. Try adding a dollop of hummus, a slice of pickled onion, or a drizzle of tahini sauce for an extra layer of flavor. If you want to spice things up, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño can introduce a nice kick.

For a complete meal, serve them with a side of crispy baked sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad. The contrasting textures and flavors complement the chickpea sliders beautifully, making for a satisfying vegetarian feast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to soak and cook them prior to using in the recipe.

→ Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps as a substitute.

→ How can I store the chickpea smash?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love adding pickled onions, shredded carrots, or even a drizzle of tahini for extra flavor!