Happy New Year (Not) Tuna Melts

First of all, happy new year! Hard to believe we've made it to 2010, and there are still no flying cars - damn. This is kind of a cheater post, because things have been way too busy around here for me to do as much cooking (or blogging) as I'd like. Anyway, the other day, a sudden random craving inspired me to make these for lunch, and they turned out so beautiful and delicious that they simply cried out to be photographed before being eaten. Chickpea salad isn't exactly rocket science, but I flatter myself that mine is pretty damn good, and on an English muffin under a blanket of melted "cheese" (we had Vegan Gourmet mozzarella on hand, but grated Daiya or Sheese would be even better), it was exactly what was needed on a cold, snowy day. I have another two weeks left of my holiday break, so I hope to manage something a bit more creative in the upcoming: watch this space!

Happy New Year (Not) Tuna Melts

Ingredients
~ 1 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained
~ 1 rib celery, finely minced
~ 1/2 green bell pepper, minced
~ 1/2 cup Vegenaise, or vegan mayo of your choice (more or less to taste)
~ 1/2 tsp. each: kosher salt, dill, parsley, paprika
~ Fresh black pepper to taste
~ Dash of hot sauce (optional, but recommended)
~ 4 English muffins, split and lightly toasted
~ 1-1.5 cup grated vegan cheese

Directions
~ Preheat your oven to Broil.
~ Place the drained chickpeas in a largeish bowl. With a potato masher, mash them until they are crushed but not totally pulpy; you still want some texture, but nothing that screams "hey, I'm a chickpea!"
~ Add the celery, green pepper, Vegenaise, and spices, and stir to combine thoroughly. Taste for seasoning and texture.
~ Spread the chickpea salad on each of the toasted muffin halves, top with desired amount of "cheese," and sprinkle with a little extra paprika.
~ Place your little muffin dudes on a baking sheet and broil for about 5 minutes, or until the tops are browned and bubbly, making sure not to burn.
~ Allow to cool a few minutes before eating: yum!