Description
Vegan Ceviche Style Chickpeas
Inspired by the traditional ceviche, this plant-based version swaps out white fish for protein-packed chickpeas. The result? A light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a refreshing meal or post-workout snack. Fresh cilantro, lime juice, and crunchy cucumber blend beautifully with Roma tomatoes and jalapeños, making it both nutritious and utterly satisfying. Try it with tortilla chips or tostadas for an authentic experience!
2 cans garbanzo beans (14 oz each)
1 bunch fresh cilantro
1/4 cup lime juice (3-4 limes)
3 Roma tomatoes, diced
4 jalapeños, diced
1 medium red onion, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
2 avocados (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour.
2. Serve with tortilla chips or tostadas.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 120 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Vegan Ceviche Style Chickpeas every time.
- Drain and rinse the two cans of garbanzo beans thoroughly in a colander. Allow them to drain completely while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Finely chop the fresh cilantro, dice the Roma tomatoes, jalapeños, red onion, and peeled cucumber. For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing.
- In a very large mixing bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, all the chopped vegetables, and the cilantro.
- Pour the fresh lime juice (about 1/4 cup) over the mixture. The acid from the lime juice is crucial as it “cooks” and marinates the vegetables, mimicking the traditional ceviche process.
- Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly distributed. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, though 2-3 hours is ideal. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Just before serving, dice the optional avocados and fold them in gently to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in numerous ways. For a classic appetizer, serve it with crispy tortilla chips or on top of crunchy tostadas. For a light lunch, spoon it over a bed of fresh greens or into butter lettuce cups. It also makes an excellent filling for tacos or a vibrant topping for vegan nachos. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or as a salsa with black bean burgers.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this dish by rinsing chickpeas, dicing all fresh vegetables and herbs, combining them in a bowl with lime juice and seasoning, and chilling for 1+ hours. Fold in avocado just before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, you can use 1.5 cups of dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight, then cook until tender but still firm, before cooling and using in the recipe.
How long does this ceviche last in the fridge? It is best consumed within 2-3 days. Note that the avocado, if added, will brown over time, so add it only to portions you plan to eat immediately.
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, all the core ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Always check your tortilla chips or tostada labels if serving with them to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Can I make it less spicy? Absolutely. Reduce the number of jalapeños, remove their seeds and ribs thoroughly, or substitute with a milder pepper like poblano.
What can I use instead of cilantro? If you dislike cilantro, fresh flat-leaf parsley or even fresh dill can provide a different but pleasant herbal note.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not skip the chilling time, as it is essential for flavor development. Do not add the avocado before marinating, as it will become mushy and brown. Do not under-season; the chickpeas and vegetables need ample salt and pepper. Ensure your lime juice is fresh, not bottled, for the brightest flavor. Finally, do not stir the mixture too vigorously after adding avocado to maintain a pleasing texture.
Conclusion
This Vegan Ceviche Style Chickpeas recipe is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can create a dish that is both incredibly nutritious and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect make-ahead option for gatherings, a healthy snack, or a light meal that celebrates vibrant, plant-based eating. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.