This Spicy Chickpea Avocado Toast is a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a satisfying snack.
Creamy avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while chickpeas deliver plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.
The warming spices—cumin, turmeric, paprika, and chili—add depth and a mild kick, enhancing both flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy mornings, light dinners, or meal-prep friendly lunches.
Toasted sourdough or your favorite bread provides a crispy base that complements the creamy avocado and spiced chickpeas.
High in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this recipe balances indulgence with wholesome nutrition.
Its simplicity, versatility, and bold flavors make it a crowd-pleasing, everyday option for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-forward, flavorful meal.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Frying Pan
Perfect for sautéing chickpeas with spices and garlic evenly. A non-stick or stainless steel pan ensures even cooking without sticking.
Mixing Bowl
Ideal for mashing avocado with lemon juice and seasoning, creating a creamy, smooth spread. Essential for salads, dips, and spreads.
Fork or Potato Masher
Quickly mashes avocado to a desired consistency while maintaining a slightly chunky texture for added mouthfeel.
Spatula
Helps spread avocado evenly over toast and easily transfers spiced chickpeas on top, ensuring clean and attractive plating.
Toaster or Oven
Provides crisp, golden bread for the base, adding texture that balances the creamy avocado and chickpeas while enhancing overall flavor.
Flavorful Chickpea Avocado Toast
Equipment
- 1 Frying Pan
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Fork or Potato Masher
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Toaster or Oven
Ingredients
For the Spicy Chickpeas:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can 400 g chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 garlic clove crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Smashed Avocado:
- 1 avocado
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Pinch of salt
- Chili flakes optional
For the Toast:
- 2 large slices of sourdough or bread of choice
Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Place a frying pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Allow the oil to warm slightly, creating a perfect surface for sautéing chickpeas and releasing the aroma of the garlic.
- Sauté Garlic and Chickpeas: Add the crushed garlic and drained chickpeas to the heated pan. Stir for 2–3 minutes to coat the chickpeas in oil and lightly toast the garlic, enhancing its flavor.
- Add the Spices: Sprinkle chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and paprika over the chickpeas. Mix thoroughly to ensure each chickpea is evenly coated with the spices, creating a fragrant and vibrant base for the toast.
- Season and Finish: Squeeze in the juice of one lemon, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Avocado: While the chickpeas cook, cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a small mixing bowl.Mash the avocado with a fork or potato masher until smooth but slightly chunky.
- Flavor the Avocado: Add juice from 1/2 a lemon, a pinch of salt, and optional chili flakes. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, zesty, and slightly spicy avocado spread.
- Assemble the Toast: Toast two slices of bread to your desired crispiness. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toasted bread, then top with the spiced chickpeas. Garnish with fresh coriander if desired and serve immediately for a warm, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Levels: Reduce or increase chili powder and chili flakes to control heat according to your preference.
- Chickpea Variations: Canned chickpeas are convenient, but cooked dried chickpeas can be used for a firmer texture and extra flavor.
- Avocado Options: Slightly underripe avocados work best to prevent over-mashing; overly ripe avocados may become too watery.
- Bread Choices: Sourdough adds a tangy flavor, but multigrain, whole wheat, or gluten-free bread can be used.
- Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the spiced chickpeas in advance and mash avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.
Chef’s Secrets For Flavorful Toasts
The key to this recipe’s success lies in balancing spice, creaminess, and crunch.
Lightly toasting the bread enhances texture and adds depth, while sautéing chickpeas with spices and garlic develops a bold, aromatic flavor.
Adding lemon juice brightens the dish and balances richness from the avocado.
Mashing the avocado slightly chunky retains a pleasant mouthfeel, and optional chili flakes introduce an extra kick.
Fresh coriander or parsley adds visual appeal and subtle herbal notes, transforming a simple toast into a gourmet meal.
Serving Suggestions For Everyday Enjoyment
Spicy Chickpea Avocado Toast pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, roasted vegetables, or a warm bowl of soup for a well-rounded meal.
For brunch or lunch gatherings, consider serving with a light, refreshing drink like sparkling water with lemon or a green smoothie.
Top with poached eggs for additional protein or sprinkle with seeds like pumpkin or sesame for added crunch and nutrition.
These versatile toasts make a satisfying snack, a quick weekday lunch, or a simple, plant-forward dinner option.
Storage Tips For Best Freshness
For optimal flavor and texture, prepare chickpeas ahead of time but mash the avocado only when ready to serve.
Store spiced chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Bread should be toasted just before serving to maintain crispness.
Avoid storing assembled toasts, as avocado can brown and bread may become soggy.
Using a small squeeze of lemon over the avocado slows oxidation and preserves color if slight delays occur.
Proper storage ensures each bite retains the perfect combination of creamy avocado, spiced chickpeas, and crunchy toast.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, it is naturally vegan. Simply use plant-based bread if needed and avoid toppings like cheese or eggs.
2. What bread works best?
Sourdough offers tang and texture, but multigrain, whole wheat, or gluten-free options work equally well. Toast lightly for best results.
3. Can I use frozen chickpeas?
Yes, thaw and drain them before sautéing. Slightly pat dry to reduce excess moisture and ensure crispiness.
4. How can I reduce spice?
Lower the chili powder and omit chili flakes for a milder flavor without compromising taste.
5. Can I prepare this in advance?
Prepare the chickpeas ahead, but mash avocado and toast bread just before serving for best freshness and texture.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by nadiashealthykitchen. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
