Here’s a tasty and satisfying Tuna Salad made with chickpeas! It’s a perfect plant-based alternative to traditional tuna salad, packed with flavor and texture. Chickpeas give it a hearty base, while the creamy dressing and crunchy veggies make it deliciously satisfying.
Yield: 3 Servings
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas)
- 1/4 cup vegan mayo (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion (or green onion)
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon nori flakes or crumbled nori sheets (optional, for a seaweed flavor)
Instructions:
1. Mash the Chickpeas:
- In a medium mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the chickpeas until most of them are broken down but still slightly chunky. You want some texture, so don’t mash them into a smooth paste.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can pulse the chickpeas in a food processor for a few seconds.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayo, lemon juice, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust as needed—add more lemon juice for brightness.
3. Mix the Salad:
- To the mashed chickpeas, add the diced celery, red onion, pickles, and nori flakes (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir gently to combine until everything is well-coated.
4. Chill and Serve:
- If you have time, let the chickpea tuna salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. However, it’s also delicious right away!
- Garnish with fresh parsley for extra color and flavor if desired.
5. Serve:
- Serve the chickpea tuna salad on a bed of greens, as a sandwich (with your favorite bread or wrap), in a pita, or with crackers for a light lunch or snack.
- You can also add it to a grain bowl with quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.
Tips:
- Make It Creamier: Add more vegan mayo if you prefer a creamier salad. You can also mix in a bit of plain vegan yogurt for extra tang.
- Vegan “Tuna” Flavors: The nori flakes help mimic ocean-like flavor of traditional tuna. If you’re not a fan of nori, you can leave it out.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other crunchy veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for extra freshness and crunch.
- Make It Spicy: Add some hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a kick!
This Vegan Chickpea Tuna Salad is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even served with crispy chips or a salad. It’s simple, filling, and full of flavor! Enjoy!
