Save This Vegan Chicken Salad is a vibrant, plant-based take on a classic delicatessen favorite. By combining the heartiness of chickpeas with a delightful crunch, this recipe creates a meal that is as satisfying as it is colorful, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking a fresh and flavorful lunch option.
Save The secret to this salad's success lies in its incredible texture. The slivered almonds provide a distinct snap, while the pulsed chickpeas mimic the tender bite of traditional chicken. Every spoonful is rounded out by the brightness of fresh lemon juice and the crispness of diced celery.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw slivered almonds
- 15 oz (425 g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 celery ribs, diced small
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a food processor, pulse the slivered almonds a few times until crumbly—avoid processing into a powder or paste.
- Step 2
- Add the drained chickpeas to the processor with the almonds. Pulse a few times until the mixture is flaky, with some beans left whole. Do not over-process.
- Step 3
- Transfer the almond-chickpea mixture to a large bowl. Add celery, grapes, dried cherries, vegan mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Step 4
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Step 5
- Serve chilled on croissants, bread with lettuce, over a salad, or with crackers.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
If you do not have a food processor, you can easily achieve the same results by hand. Simply chop the slivered almonds finely with a large knife and mash the chickpeas in a bowl using a fork or potato masher before folding in the remaining ingredients.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For those with nut allergies, you can omit the almonds entirely or substitute them with pepitas or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. If you are looking for a lighter dressing, try swapping the vegan mayonnaise with plain vegan yogurt, or use a homemade vegan mayo for a more customized flavor.
Serviervorschläge
This versatile salad is delicious served chilled in a variety of ways. Spoon it into a flaky vegan croissant for a gourmet touch, spread it onto toasted bread with crisp lettuce for a classic sandwich, or serve it on a bed of fresh greens or with a side of crackers for a light, refreshing snack.
Save Whether you are planning a weekend picnic or just need a quick, nutritious lunch during a busy week, this Vegan Chicken Salad is a reliable and tasty solution. It is a refreshing dish that proves plant-based meals can be both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this without a food processor?
Absolutely. Simply chop the almonds finely with a knife and mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until flaky but still textured. Combine with the remaining ingredients as directed.
- → What can I substitute for the almonds?
Cashews, pepitas (pumpkin seeds), or sunflower seeds work beautifully as alternatives. For nut-free versions, opt for seeds or omit the crunchy element entirely—the salad still delivers great texture from celery and grapes.
- → How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
This salad maintains excellent quality for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop and meld over time, making it perfect for advance preparation.
- → Can I use Greek yogurt instead of vegan mayo?
For a dairy-free version, use vegan plain yogurt. The consistency will be slightly thinner and tangier than mayonnaise, so you may want to reduce the lemon juice slightly to balance the flavors.
- → What's the best way to serve this?
This versatile preparation shines stuffed into croissants, layered on toasted bread with crisp lettuce, served over mixed greens, or simply enjoyed with crackers. It's ideal for picnics, school lunches, or quick weekday meals.
- → Can I add other vegetables or fruits?
Certainly. Diced apples, chopped pecans, shredded carrots, or green onions all make excellent additions. Just maintain roughly the same total volume to keep the dressing properly balanced.