Better Than Tuna Chickpea Salad Recipe

Craving a tuna salad sandwich but want a healthier, plant-based option? This Better Than Tuna Chickpea Salad recipe delivers all the creamy, satisfying flavor of the classic, minus the cholesterol and mercury! Inspired by Vegan Table, this recipe is quick, easy, and completely customizable. We've halved the original recipe for convenience, and you can easily add your own twist, like dill pickles or scallions, for an extra burst of flavor. Get ready for a delicious and guilt-free lunch!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Calories 268.9 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Better Than Tuna Chickpea Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Better Than Tuna Chickpea Salad

  • 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • Red Bell Pepper
  • Carrots
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
  • Dill Pickle Spears
  • Fresh Parsley
  • Walnuts
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Pepper

How to Make Better Than Tuna Chickpea Salad

  1. Drain and rinse one 15-ounce can of chickpeas. Add the chickpeas to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but still slightly chunky. (Do not over-process!)
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the following: 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1/4 cup finely chopped celery, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon celery seed, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and the processed chickpeas.
  3. Gently mix all ingredients until well combined.
  4. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles (optional) and/or 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (optional).
  5. Serve immediately on bread, crackers, or lettuce cups for a delightful and healthy meal!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

24 g

Sugar

12g

Fat

7g

Carbs

10g