Chickpea Avocado SandwichChickpea Avocado Sandwich

A delicious and satisfying sandwich that’s a perfect speedy lunch idea for Veganuary.

I seem to see a lot of controversy concerning Veganuary this year, but I honestly don’t see why some aren’t happy that people are trying it out, even if it is only one month of the year.

If you haven’t heard of Veganuray, it’s quite a newish ‘trend’ that’s going around on social media. Not sure who started it and when, but it’s my understanding that the idea behind it was to encourage people who aren’t vegan to try eating a vegan diet for a month, whether they believe in the ethics behind veganism or not. 

This year in particular, it seems that more and more vegans (and none vegans) are talking about it. Some think it belittles the core concept of veganism and what it actually stands for. Others argue that it might start disordered eating habits because people eliminate food groups in the aim of losing weight. 

As someone who eats a mainly plant-based diet, I honestly think it’s a good thing that more and more people are trying it out and are becoming interested in a vegan diet. Whatever the reason is for them doing it. From an ethical point of view I feel it’s getting more people to look into and talk about the issues of animal welfare as well as the impact animal consumption has on the environment. And if people do it properly – as in research a good, healthy vegan diet, what foods to eat to ensure they’re getting everything they need nutritionally etc. then it can be a good way of making people realise that eating less meat and animal products is not as boring and depriving as most people think. 

I do agree however that it shouldn’t be seen as a weight loss tool, because it isn’t! A vegan diet won’t necessarily help you lose weight and improve your health. If anything it can probably be one of the unhealthiest diets if not done properly! 

Having said all that, I would definitely encourage people to try eating less meat and incorporate more plant-based meals in their diets. 

Whether you are taking part in Veganuary or not, everyone can enjoy this Chickpea Avocado Sandwich. It’s super easy to put together and tastes so yummy! Perfect quick-to-put-together lunch and ideal to take with you to work, college or school. 

Chickpea Avocado Sandwich

Serves: 4

Ingredients

1 (400g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 ripe avocado, mashed
2 tbsp chopped parsley
4 tbsp chopped red onion
3 tbsp chopped gherkins
1 tsp mustard
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slices of toasted bread – use gluten-free bread if you’re allergic/intolerant

Method

Mix the chickpeas and avocado in a large bowl and mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork.
Add the parsley, onions, gherkins, mustard, lemon juice and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions to make four sandwiches. Top with rocket and an optional drizzle of chilli sauce.