Name: Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 14-oz cans chickpeas, drained (approximately 400 g cans); 1 pink lady apple, finely diced; 1 stalk celery, finely diced; ¼ cup finely chopped red onion (about ¼ of a medium onion); ¼ cup sliced almonds; ¼ cup mayonnaise (can substitute with vegan mayo), 60 g; ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (can substitute with plant-based yogurt), 60 g; 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 10 g; 1 tsp lemon juice, 5 mL; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper

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If you’ve ever craved the comfort and satisfying texture of classic chicken salad but want to keep things plant-based, you’ll absolutely fall in love with the Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe. This dish is a delicious fusion of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors that come together in just 15 minutes. Chickpeas provide that hearty “chicken-like” base, while crisp apple and sliced almonds add delightful freshness and texture. It’s a versatile, wholesome salad that feels like a special treat but is simple enough for any weekday lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding two layers inside; the left side is full of whole, light yellow chickpeas with a smooth, round texture, and the right side has mashed chickpeas that are crumbly and pale yellow. A silver fork is placed diagonally inside the bowl, with its prongs touching the mashed chickpeas. The photo is taken from above, showing the contrast between the whole and mashed chickpeas clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this recipe lies in its effortless ingredients that deliver so much flavor and texture with minimal fuss. Each component plays a crucial role — chickpeas for protein and that tender bite, apple for a crisp pop of sweetness, and sliced almonds for crunch and nuttiness. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

2 14-oz cans chickpeas, drained: These form the hearty “chicken” base with creamy yet firm texture.
1 pink lady apple, finely diced: Adds natural sweetness and crunch, balancing savory notes.
1 stalk celery, finely diced: Brings a fresh crispness that keeps every bite lively.
¼ cup finely chopped red onion: Delivers a mild sharpness that brightens the salad.
¼ cup sliced almonds: Introduces light crunch and a lovely nutty flavor.
¼ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo): Provides creaminess and helps bind the salad together.
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt): Adds tang and smooth texture for richness.
2 tsp Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle kick and enhances depth of flavor.
1 tsp lemon juice: A dash of acidity to brighten all the ingredients.
¼ tsp salt and pepper each: Simple but essential seasonings to tie it all together.

How to Make Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe

Step 1: Smash the Chickpeas

Start by draining your chickpeas thoroughly, then use a fork or your fingers to roughly smash them in a large bowl. You want some texture — not completely smooth — so that every bite has a satisfying, hearty feel reminiscent of traditional chicken salad.

Step 2: Add the Filling Ingredients

Next, stir in the finely diced pink lady apple, celery, red onion, and sliced almonds. These ingredients add fresh crunch and bursts of flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the creamy base you just smashed. The combination results in a beautiful balance of textures that makes this salad stand out.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or vegan mayo), plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This dressing brings creaminess with a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that complements the chickpea mixture perfectly, elevating the entire dish.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over your chickpea and veggie mixture, then gently stir until everything is evenly coated. You can enjoy this salad right away, but for the best flavor, cover and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This resting time melds the ingredients beautifully and makes every forkful even more delicious.

How to Serve Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe

A white bowl filled with a chunky mixture of light yellow creamy salad containing small pieces of red apple, green celery, and red onion bits, creating a textured and colorful mix. Two wooden spoons rest inside the bowl on the right side. To the left, there is a white plate stacked with golden-brown croissants with a flaky texture. On the right, a red apple and half a red onion sit on the white marbled surface near fresh green celery stalks. The scene is lit by bright sunlight, casting clear shadows and reflections. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle a few extra sliced almonds and freshly chopped celery leaves or parsley on top just before serving to add an inviting visual appeal and an additional layer of crunch. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a flavor boost and showcase your personal touch.

Side Dishes

This chickpea “chicken” salad pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying sandwich or alongside crisp crackers for a lighter option. It can also be served atop a bed of fresh greens or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb meal perfect for any season.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Try stuffing this salad into avocado halves or using it as a filling for pita pockets. You could also spoon it onto cucumber rounds for elegant appetizing bites at parties. The versatility of the Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe means you can get creative and enjoy it in countless delicious ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep or to enjoy throughout the week without losing its charm or freshness.

Freezing

Freezing is not ideal for this salad due to its fresh apple and crunchy almonds, which can become soggy and lose texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or well-chilled rather than frozen.

Reheating

Since this salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Just give it a good stir if it’s been in the fridge and serve chilled or slightly warmed by bringing it to room temperature for the best experience.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with your favorite vegan versions. Many plant-based brands offer creamy alternatives that work perfectly in this recipe.

What type of apple is best for this salad?

Pink Lady apples are ideal due to their crisp texture and slightly tart-sweet flavor, which balances well with the savory ingredients. However, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work wonderfully too.

How can I add more protein to this salad?

To boost protein even further, try tossing in some cooked quinoa, hemp seeds, or your favorite nuts and seeds in addition to the sliced almonds. These options blend seamlessly with the existing flavors.

Is this salad suitable for diabetics?

Yes, this recipe is low in added sugars and rich in fiber from chickpeas and vegetables, making it a smart choice for managing blood sugar levels. Always consider portion sizes and individual dietary needs.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for a picnic or potluck?

Definitely! The Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe travels well and tastes even better after sitting for a bit. Just keep it chilled until serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about this Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe that makes it a quick favorite in any kitchen. It’s refreshing, filling, and bursting with flavor while celebrating wholesome, plant-based ingredients. I encourage you to try it soon — whether as a light lunch, picnic treat, or an easy weeknight meal — and enjoy every wonderful bite!

Vegetarian Chickpea “Chicken” Salad with Apple and Sliced Almonds Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need