Name: Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: Plain Hummus (½ Cup); Fresh Basil (2 Cups); Fresh Arugula (2 Cups); Minced Garlic (3 Tbs); Nutritional Yeast (¼ Cup); Lemon Juice (3 Tbs); Salt to Taste; Oil or Vegetable Broth (Add to make the Pesto more creamy) (2-4 Tbs); Smashed Cooked Chickpeas (1 Cup); Creamy Protein Pesto (⅓ Cup); Vegan Mozzarella or Avocado Slices (½ Cup); Sliced Tomatoes (4-6 Slices); Sliced Cucumbers (5-8 Slices); Sliced Jalapeños (4-8 Slices); Fresh Greens (¼ Cup); Indian Black Salt and Pepper to Taste; Gluten-Free Bread or Bread of Choice

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Ever made fresh Pesto with hummus? Well now you know what you’ve got to do! Make this perfect protein-packed Sandwich loaded with beautiful basil I picked from my Aerogarden right here in my kitchen, vegan mozzarella, tomatoes, and (my favorite bean ever!) smashed chickpeas. What’s glorious about this recipe is that you can serve the magical Pesto + smashed chickpea mixture on top of salads, with chips, in lettuce wraps, tortillas, and more!

If you love this recipe, you may also want to try my Vegan Chicken Breakfast Sandwich and Vegan Breakfast Bagel Sandwich !

COURSE: Lunch, Main Course, Entree, Dinner

CUISINE: Italian, American, Picnic, Brunch

NUTRITIONAL FACTS: (Per 2 Cups)

Calories 533

Protein 21g
Dietary Fiber 18g

Why You Will Love This Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich:

Get ready to fall in love with this Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich! Fragrant basil picked straight from your kitchen's Aerogarden, paired with creamy vegan mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and the satisfying crunch of smashed chickpeas—yum! But here's the kicker: this delightful pesto and chickpea combo isn't just for sandwiches; oh no! You can spread this magic on salads, scoop it up with chips, wrap it in lettuce, or even tuck it into tortillas. So go ahead, spread the cheer and savor every delicious bite!

About the Ingredients:

Get ready for a protein-packed sensation! This sandwich is bursting with flavor, featuring fresh basil from my @officialaerogarden, vegan mozzarella, tomatoes, and smashed chickpeas. The best part? You can enjoy the magical pesto and chickpea mix in so many ways – on salads, with chips, in wraps, and more! It's a joyful and versatile recipe that'll make every meal feel like a celebration!

Plain Hummus

Creamy, versatile, and downright delicious, plain hummus brings a burst of flavor to every bite. Whether you're spreading it on sandwiches, dipping veggies, or adding it to your favorite dishes, plain hummus is sure to bring smiles all around. So scoop it up and let the happiness begin!

Additionally, hummus is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy option. So, while it enhances the taste of the dish, it also provides nourishment and promotes good health with every delicious bite.

Fresh Basil

Fresh basil brings a burst of freshness and vibrant flavor to this Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich! Its aromatic aroma and slightly peppery taste elevate the dish, adding a delightful herbal note that tantalizes the taste buds.

Not only does basil enhance the overall flavor profile, but it also offers health benefits, including antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin K and vitamin A. So, with fresh basil, it’s sure to leave you feeling refreshed and healthy!

Smashed Cooked Chickpeas

Smashed cooked chickpeas bring a hearty texture and protein boost to the Sandwich! Their creamy consistency and nutty flavor add depth to the dish, creating a satisfying and filling component.

Plus, chickpeas are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. So, with smashed cooked chickpeas, you're not just adding texture – you're also adding a dose of wholesome goodness that'll leave you feeling nourished and satisfied!

Sliced Tomatoes

Sliced tomatoes bring juicy freshness to this Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich! With their vibrant color and sweet-tangy flavor, they add a delightful contrast to the other ingredients.

Not only do tomatoes enhance the visual appeal of the dish, but they also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall health. Whether you're layering them in a sandwich or tossing them in a salad, sliced tomatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition that brightens up any dish!

Sliced Jalapeños

Sliced jalapeños bring a spicy kick and vibrant flavor to the recipe! Their zesty heat adds excitement to each bite, while their crunchy texture adds a satisfying contrast.

Jalapeños also offer health benefits, including vitamins C and A, as well as capsaicin, which may have metabolism-boosting properties!

Questions and Tips:

What equipment can I make this recipe in?

You can easily whip up this recipe using basic kitchen equipment. A blender or food processor to make the pesto, a bowl for mixing the smashed chickpeas, and a knife and cutting board for slicing the tomatoes. If you have a toaster or panini press, you can use that to toast the sandwich, but it's not essential—this delightful creation is just as delicious served cold!

Are the extra toppings necessary?

While the extra toppings add an extra punch of flavor and goodness to your sandwich, they're not essential. If you're feeling adventurous, why not try adding some crunchy cucumber slices, tangy pickles, or sweet roasted bell peppers to brighten up your meal even more? The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity soar and enjoy every cheerful bite!

What else can I serve with these Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich?

Pair this Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich with a vibrant side salad featuring a colorful array of fresh veggies. Or whip up some crunchy kale chips for an extra dose of wholesome goodness. And don't forget to treat yourself to a refreshing fruit smoothie or a zesty lemonade—because every bite of this sandwich deserves to be celebrated with a cheerful accompaniment!

How long does this recipe last?

You're in luck! This recipe holds its freshness and flavor like a champ for up to three days when stored with care in the fridge. That means you've got plenty of time to savor every delightful bite of this delicious creation. So go ahead, make a batch, and let the good times roll!

Will non-vegans like this?

Without a doubt! This Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich is like a sunshine-filled picnic for your taste buds, bursting with vibrant flavors and textures. It’s sure to bring a smile to everyone's face, whether they're vegan or not. From the fresh basil to the creamy vegan mozzarella and the delightful crunch of smashed chickpeas, every bite is a joyful celebration of deliciousness. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to spread some cheer with this delightful sandwich—it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Vegan Protein Pesto Sandwich