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Discover the delightful world of Smashed Chickpea and Avocado Toast Cups, a nutritious and flavorful dish that elevates your snacking game. This recipe artfully combines the creamy texture of ripe avocado with the hearty goodness of chickpeas, all elegantly served in crispy whole grain toast cups. The result is a vibrant, satisfying treat that caters to both health-conscious eaters and those simply looking for a delicious bite. Whether served at a brunch gathering, as an appetizer for a dinner party, or as a light lunch on a busy day, these toast cups are incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.

Smashed Chickpea and Avocado Toast Cups

Elevate your snacking with Smashed Chickpea and Avocado Toast Cups, a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines creamy avocado and hearty chickpeas in crispy whole grain toast cups. Ideal for brunches, appetizers, or light lunches, these versatile treats are easy to prepare and packed with essential nutrients. Discover step-by-step instructions and health benefits of each ingredient in this delightful recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients
  

1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained

1 ripe avocado

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added flavor)

4 slices of whole grain bread

Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), finely chopped, for garnish

Cherry tomatoes, halved, for topping

Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for toasting the bread.

    Prepare the Chickpea Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained chickpeas. Using a fork or a potato masher, lightly smash them, ensuring to leave some chunks for interesting texture.

      Incorporate the Avocado: Cut the ripe avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the creamy flesh into the bowl with the smashed chickpeas. Add the fresh lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if desired). Stir gently until the mixture is well combined but remains chunky, providing a satisfying bite.

        Toast the Bread: Arrange the whole grain bread slices on a baking sheet, then place them in the preheated oven. Toast for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crisp to touch.

          Create the Cups: Once the bread has reached the desired crispiness, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out circles from each slice of bread, forming delightful little cups. If you prefer a more rustic presentation, you can leave the slices whole for open-faced toast.

            Fill the Cups: Generously spoon the flavorful smashed chickpea and avocado mixture into each bread cup or atop the whole slices, ensuring an appetizing mound in each.

              Garnish: Finish by topping each cup with halved cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, and a dash of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a little heat.

                Serve: Present these tasty cups immediately for the best flavor and texture, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light lunch!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4