Chickpea Veggie Flatbread Sandwich Recipe

"This is a simple lunch/dinner sandwich; and, the best part ... You can make the chickpeas and the pickled cucumber/onions the day before. Actually, they are better made ahead of time. This makes 4 sandwiches; but, it really depends on the bread you decide to use. I like to use a 6-7" round whole wheat flatbread for this, which I think works best. Pita bread is also a good choice. And, feel free to use any of your favorite vegetables. Prep time does NOT include time for the chickpeas to marinate."

Step by Step Method

Step 1

Chick Peas ... Add the chickpeas, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, Greek seasoning, garlic, cumin, salt, and paprika to a bowl; and, stir to combine. Marinate over night, all day - or, at least 4 hours. They can easily marinate up to a couple of days too. The longer they marinate; the better they are.

Step 2

Quick Pickled Onions and Cucumbers ... Add the onions and cucumbers to a mason jar or small glass (non metal) bowl. Then, bring the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt up to a medium boil; reduce for just a minute - and pour over the cucumbers and onions. Let them cool; then cover for 15-30 minutes. You can easily make these the night before, if you want.

Step 3

Dressing ... In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice and zest, parsley, and mint; and, mix. Season with a little salt and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4

Saute ... Add the chick peas to a small saute pan; and bring to medium high heat. As the chickpeas cook, mash them up - using a potato masher or fork. You want a rough texture. Continue to stir until everything is incorporated and heated through (5-10 minutes).

Step 5

Finish ... First, I like to grill or warm up the bread. NOT hot or browned, just warmed - I usually just put them on a grill pan for a minute per side. A saute pan works fine too. Then, add the spinach or greens to the center of the bread; and, top with 4 tablespoons of the warm chick peas, Feta, pickled onions and cucumber, and tomato. Then, finish with the sauce, fold in half; and secure with a toothpic - or, I like to wrap them in a piece of foil (just like you get at a restaurant).

Step 6

Serve and ENJOY! ... A bowl of soup and fresh fruit is the perfect side. It makes a great lunch or dinner sandwich; also, a great vegetarian meal as well. It's hearty and very filling.