Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chickpea Tuna Salad is a protein-rich, filling, and refreshingly simple dish that comes together in minutes. Combining creamy chickpeas, flaky tuna, crisp veggies, and a light lemony dressing, it’s perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or a satisfying no-cook dinner. This salad is both hearty and healthy, with a Mediterranean-inspired flair.

ingredients

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

canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
canned tuna (in water or olive oil, drained)
celery
red onion
cucumber
cherry tomatoes
fresh parsley
lemon juice
olive oil
Dijon mustard
salt
black pepper
optional: capers, feta, or avocado

directions

In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas and flaked tuna.

Dice the celery, red onion, cucumber, and halve the cherry tomatoes.

Add all the chopped vegetables to the bowl with the chickpeas and tuna.

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

Pour the dressing over the salad and mix gently to combine.

Fold in chopped fresh parsley and optional add-ins like capers or feta.

Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes (or 40 minutes if chilling)

Variations

Add diced avocado for creaminess.
Use Greek yogurt or hummus in place of olive oil for a creamy twist.
Include olives or roasted red peppers for more Mediterranean flair.
Swap tuna for shredded chicken or salmon.
Serve on greens, in a wrap, or stuffed in pita bread.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Best served cold or at room temperature.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the vegetables and chickpeas will change.

FAQs

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, just omit the tuna and add extra chickpeas or tofu.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, just cook them beforehand and let them cool completely.

What type of tuna works best?
Chunk light or solid white tuna in water or olive oil are both good choices.

How can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a bit.

What’s a good substitute for Dijon mustard?
Whole grain or yellow mustard, or a splash of vinegar.

Should I mash the chickpeas?
You can mash some for a creamier texture, but it’s optional.

Can I add grains like quinoa?
Yes, cooked quinoa or couscous can bulk it up nicely.

Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, especially with milder onions or without raw onions.

Conclusion

Chickpea Tuna Salad is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s quick to make, versatile, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a simple meal prep idea, or a picnic-friendly option, this salad checks all the boxes. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your weekly rotation.