Chickpea Tuna Melt
A classic diner-style tuna melt gets a delicious plant-based makeover! Mashed chickpeas create a surprisingly savory and satisfying filling, mixed with creamy vegan mayo and crunchy celery, then grilled to perfection with melted vegan cheese.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the chickpea salad filling
- b.In a medium bowl, add the rinsed and drained chickpeas.
- c.Mash them with a fork or potato masher until flaky and broken down, leaving some texture.
- d.Add the vegan mayonnaise, chopped celery, red onion, dill pickle relish, dijon mustard, and optional nori flakes.
- e.Season with salt and pepper, and mix well until everything is combined.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the sandwiches
- b.Lay out the 8 slices of bread on a clean surface.
- c.Divide the chickpea salad mixture evenly among 4 of the bread slices, spreading it to the edges.
- d.Place one slice of vegan cheese on top of the chickpea salad on each of the 4 slices.
- e.Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill the melts
- b.Lightly brush the top of each assembled sandwich with melted vegan butter.
- c.Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- d.Carefully place the sandwiches, buttered-side down, onto the hot skillet. You may need to do this in batches.
- e.Brush the new top side of the sandwiches with the remaining vegan butter.
- f.Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the vegan cheese is melted.
- g.Press down gently with a spatula while cooking for an even crust.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve immediately
- b.Remove the sandwiches from the skillet.
- c.Slice them in half diagonally and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, don't over-mash the chickpeas. You want a flaky consistency, not a smooth paste.
- 2A non-stick pan is key to getting a golden crust without the sandwich sticking.
- 3The nori flakes are optional but highly recommended for adding a subtle 'tuna-like' flavor from the sea.
- 4Feel free to add other crunchy veggies like bell peppers or carrots to the chickpea salad.
- 5The chickpea salad filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten free
Use your favorite brand of gluten-free bread to make this sandwich completely gluten-free.
healthyHealthy
For a lower-fat version, use a low-fat vegan mayo or substitute half of the mayo with unsweetened vegan yogurt or a cashew-based cream.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red onion and dijon mustard for a milder flavor that kids will love.
high proteinHigh protein
Mix 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds or shelled sunflower seeds into the chickpea salad for an extra protein boost.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
High in Dietary Fiber
Both chickpeas and whole wheat bread provide significant dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, supports gut health, and helps manage blood sugar levels.
Dairy-Free and Cholesterol-Free
As a completely plant-based meal, this melt is naturally free of dairy and dietary cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, absolutely! This recipe uses chickpeas instead of tuna, vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayo, and dairy-free cheese, making it 100% plant-based and vegan.