Tangy Lemon Chickpea Smash

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Chic Pea Smash AKA Vegan Tuna

Chic Pea smash, also known as vegan tuna, is a great go-to for anyone who is looking for a high protein, healthy lunch or dinner. The great thing about this smash is that you can place it on top of anything — bread, salads, inside wraps or just eat it alone. An added bonus is that you can truly add whatever vegetable you would like to it. My personal favorite is to add jalapenos and eat it on top of salad!

If you have read any of my other blog posts, you know Gabe and I travel often. Last year, on Black Friday, we went to to Washington, DC. No, this was not our first trip ever going to DC, but it was our first trip going together.

If you have any dietary restrictions, you know how HARD it is to find somewhere that has food that you enjoy when you travel. After many yelp, google and instagram searches, we came across a very cool restaurant that had a plethora of options for vegans, veggers and anyone else. At this time, I was not a vegan (jut a vegetarian), but did limit my consumption of diary products.

Immediately this menu item stood out to me. What is vegan tuna?! This has to be gross. Then I read closer and saw it was made from chic peas – my favorite! I reviewed the ingredients thoroughly, and made the plunge to try it. I was in love! So was Gabe (as he ate shrimp and grits).

So I returned home on a quest to replicate it, but add my own flare. The one in the restaurant was pretty basic, and included just some seasoning, celery and vegan mayo. I slowly started experimenting with what I like in it. Finally, I perfected what I like in it.

Now, this sandwich is a staple in my life. I eat it 1-3x a week due to its ease in making and healthy nature. While I usually eat it on a salad, sometimes I throw it in a wrap. Like I said, make it your own so you love it, and add whatever ingredients you enjoy!

So, let’s get to making this tasty sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of chic peas, drained;
• 1 tbsp of vegan mayo (optional);
• ½ of an avocado;
• 1 tsp of lemon juice;
• 2 tbsp of celery. diced;
• 3 cherry tomatoes, sliced;
• 2 tbsp of cucumbers, chopped;
• ⅛ of a jalapeno, diced;
• 2 tbsp of red onion, diced;
• A pinch of garlic salt;
• A pinch of pepper; and
• Hot sauce for a drizzle.

Directions: In a large bowl, smash the chic peas so they are at least 75% smashed. Use a potato masher or a fork. Next, add in the avocado and mash some more (it really gets your anger out!). Stir in the mayo. Fold in the additional ingredients so they are well combined. Top on whatever you want in the moment. Enjoy!