Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chickpea Tuna Salad is a fresh, protein-packed dish that combines the hearty texture of chickpeas with the savory flavor of tuna. It’s quick to prepare, full of fiber, and perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a light, satisfying lunch. The combination of crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing makes it both nutritious and delicious.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

canned tunacanned chickpeas (garbanzo beans)celeryred onioncucumberparsleylemon juicedijon mustardolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then lightly mash them in a large bowl with a fork or potato masher, leaving some whole for texture.

Drain the tuna and add it to the bowl with the mashed chickpeas.

Finely dice the celery, red onion, cucumber, and parsley, and add them to the bowl.

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the chickpea and tuna mixture and toss everything together until well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time (optional): 30 minutesTotal time: 15-45 minutes

Variations

Swap out tuna for cooked shredded chicken for a different protein.

Add diced avocado for creaminess.

Mix in capers or olives for a briny twist.

Use Greek yogurt instead of olive oil for a creamier dressing.

Serve it in lettuce wraps or stuffed into pita bread.

storage/reheating

Store Chickpea Tuna Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing.No reheating is necessary; serve chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, cook them beforehand according to package instructions and cool completely before using.

What type of tuna is best?

Albacore or chunk light tuna packed in water is ideal for this recipe.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make it vegan?

Omit the tuna and add more mashed chickpeas or try mashed jackfruit for a similar texture.

Can I freeze Chickpea Tuna Salad?

Freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture of the vegetables and dressing.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes, lime juice offers a slightly different but delicious citrus flavor.

Is it good for meal prep?

Absolutely, it holds up well in the fridge and is great for prepping lunches ahead of time.

Conclusion

Chickpea Tuna Salad is a vibrant, healthy dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Whether you’re seeking a quick lunch, a protein-packed snack, or a flavorful meal prep option, this salad delivers on taste, nutrition, and convenience. Give it a try and make it a regular star in your weekly meal rotation!