If you're craving something quick, nourishing, and a tad spicy, this Spicy Avocado and Chickpea Toast might just be your new best friend. It combines creamy avocado with a spicy chickpea topping, all nestled on crunchy whole-grain bread — a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Avocado is the creamy base that brings a rich texture and healthy fats to the dish. Its mild flavor balances the heat of the chickpeas beautifully. Chickpeas provide a hearty, protein-rich topping that adds substance and a satisfying bite. With a drizzle of olive oil, they turn golden and crisp in the skillet. Sriracha sauce is where the heat comes from, adding a spicy kick to the chickpeas. Smoked paprika lends a subtle smoky depth to the mix, while garlic powder, salt, and black pepper round out the flavors. Whole-grain bread provides a hearty, nutritious base, while baby arugula adds a fresh, peppery finish. Finally, lime juice brightens the avocado mash, and sunflower seeds add a nutty crunch on top.
This toast pairs wonderfully with a light salad on the side, perhaps something with a citrusy vinaigrette to complement the lime in the avocado. Alternatively, a bowl of tomato soup would make for a cozy, complete meal. If you're having it for breakfast, a poached egg on top would be a fantastic addition.
First, start by toasting your whole-grain bread slices until they reach your desired level of crispiness. Everyone has their own idea of the perfect toast, so make it your own! While the bread is toasting, scoop out the flesh of a ripe avocado into a bowl. Add a tablespoon of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Mash it all together until smooth and set aside.
Next, heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chickpeas and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes. You want them to get a bit golden and slightly crispy around the edges. Then, add in the sriracha sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir everything well so the chickpeas are nicely coated and cook for another 2 minutes until they're heated through.
Now, it's time to assemble. Spread the mashed avocado generously over each piece of toasted bread. Top with a spoonful of the spicy chickpea mixture, making sure to distribute it evenly. Add a handful of fresh baby arugula on top for a pop of color and flavor. Finally, sprinkle a few toasted sunflower seeds over each toast for that perfect crunch.