Description
A healthy and flavorful Tuna Garbanzo Bean Salad combining protein-rich tuna and chickpeas with a zesty homemade dressing, fresh dill, and a nice crunch from celery and red onion. Perfect for a quick, nutritious meal or snack that can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
For the dressing:
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred for more flavor)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (I prefer Hellmann’s mayonnaise)
- a few dashes hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
For the salad:
- 1 tbsp capers (drained)
- 1 can tuna (packed in water, drained well)
- 2 tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped for best flavor and aroma)
- 1 can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- 2 tbsp minced red onion (adds a sharp, fresh bite)
- 3 tbsp celery (finely chopped for a nice crunch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, and hot sauce if using. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined to create a smooth and flavorful dressing.
- Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Optionally peel and discard any loose skins from the chickpeas. Transfer the chickpeas to a medium bowl and mash some of them with a fork if you prefer a better-binding salad texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the drained tuna, chopped celery, minced red onion, drained capers, and chopped fresh dill to the bowl with the chickpeas. Pour the prepared dressing over all the ingredients. Gently stir until everything is well mixed and coated with the dressing.
- Serve Your Chickpea and Tuna Salad: Serve your salad as desired—inside a sandwich or wrap, on top of a bed of arugula, or alongside your favorite crackers. Enjoy the diverse flavors and textures of this versatile meal.
Notes
- Use freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor in the dressing.
- Peeling chickpea skins is optional but can improve texture and digestibility.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference or omit if you prefer mild flavors.
- For a creamier salad, mash more chickpeas; for chunkier texture, leave them whole.
- Try substituting capers with chopped olives if desired.
- Can be served chilled or at room temperature; refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
