Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders

Name: Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 2 tablespoons tahini; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Avocado slices

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love creating flavorful plant-based dishes, and these Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are a delightful addition to my recipe repertoire. They combine the earthy goodness of chickpeas with fresh herbs and spices, making them both satisfying and aromatic. I enjoy serving them at gatherings or for a casual dinner, and they never fail to impress! Plus, they’re quick to make, allowing me to whip them up whenever I’m craving a tasty, healthy meal.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:55:08.045Z

When I first tried making these Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders, I was amazed at how something so simple could be so delicious. The key is to finely mash the chickpeas while still leaving some texture for that perfect bite. I also experimented with different herbs, and I've settled on a combination of parsley and dill that adds a fresh, vibrant kick.

Each slider is a little flavor bomb, enhanced by a zesty tahini sauce. One tip I discovered is to let the mixture rest for a few minutes before shaping them into patties; this helps the flavors meld together beautifully. It's one of those recipes that keeps evolving, and I can't wait to keep trying new variations!

        Why You’ll Love These Sliders
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that brighten any meal
Healthy, plant-based protein source that's filling
Versatile: perfect for appetizers, lunch, or dinner

      

Perfecting the Chickpea Smash

The key to achieving a satisfying texture in the Chickpea Smash lies in how you mash the chickpeas. Using a fork or potato masher, aim for a consistency where some of the chickpeas remain chunky while others are smooth. This combination creates a delightful mouthfeel, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the slider. If you're short on time, a food processor can be used, but pulse it carefully to avoid a puree. You want the mixture to be cohesive yet still have substance.

Fresh herbs play a crucial role in this recipe, elevating the flavors of the chickpeas. Parsley adds brightness while dill contributes a subtle, aromatic touch. To maximize the flavor, use freshly chopped herbs instead of dried ones, and adjust quantities based on your taste preferences. If you don't have fresh herbs available, consider using dried versions — just reduce the amount to about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Customizing Your Sliders

These Herbed Chickpea Smash Sliders are highly adaptable. For added crunch and flavor, consider incorporating diced bell peppers or shredded carrots into the patty mixture. If you want a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be mixed in. You can also swap tahini for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you’re avoiding sesame for allergy reasons, maintaining the creamy texture that ties the ingredients together.

When assembling your sliders, don't hesitate to play with the toppings. In addition to lettuce and tomatoes, options like pickled red onions, cucumber slices, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add layers of taste. Try pairing the sliders with a light yogurt sauce or a tangy vegan mayo. These variations can transform each serving and cater to different palates, making them a versatile choice for gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your sliders:

For the Chickpea Smash

2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sliders

8 small slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Avocado slices

Feel free to customize the toppings to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Chickpea Smash

In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.

Mix in the Flavors

Add the chopped parsley, dill, tahini, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Patties

Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns.

Cook the Patties

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each patty on a slider bun and top with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado slices. Serve and enjoy!

These sliders can be served warm or at room temperature, making them great for potlucks!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the chickpea mixture. If you want a bit more kick, consider adding some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage Tips

If you have leftover Chickpea Smash, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits, making it an even more delightful spread for sandwiches or wraps. When reheating, add a touch of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice in a pan over low heat to maintain moisture and revive the freshness.

The patties can also be prepared ahead of time and frozen for convenience. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply cook straight from frozen, increasing cooking time by a few minutes on each side until heated through and golden brown. This makes for a quick meal option on busy weeknights!

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable. If you’re preparing for a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients for the Chickpea Smash, ensuring you have enough slider buns and toppings on hand. Just keep in mind that larger batches might require more cooking space; consider using two skillets to cook the patties evenly and prevent overcrowding, leading to steaming rather than browning.

For a larger gathering, consider setting up a slider bar where guests can assemble their own sliders with a variety of toppings. This not only allows for customization but also engages your guests, making the meal interactive. Provide a selection of sauces and veggies, allowing everyone to create their perfect version, enhancing the appeal of this plant-based dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chickpea mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to cook the sliders.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair well with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or a dipping sauce like hummus or tzatziki.

→ Can I freeze the chickpea patties?

Absolutely! Once formed, arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen when ready to eat.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free buns, these sliders can easily be made gluten-free.