Discover the ultimate chickpea salad recipe that’s packed with protein, fresh veggies, and delicious flavors! Perfect for a quick lunch, side dish, or a healthy snack, this nutritious salad is as tasty as it is easy to make. Full of plant-based goodness, it’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and vibrant meal. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures!
Yields: Approximately 2 cups
Prep time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise if not vegan)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 teaspoon fresh, chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional, but highly recommended for that “tuna” flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional additions: chopped fresh parsley, chopped pickles or relish, a pinch of paprika
Equipment:
- Fork or potato masher
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions with Pictures:
Step 1: Drain and Rinse the Chickpeas.
- Open the can of chickpeas and pour them into a colander. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This helps remove any excess starch and canning liquid.
Step 2: Mash the Chickpeas.
- Transfer the drained and rinsed chickpeas to a mixing bowl. Using a fork or a potato masher, mash the chickpeas to your desired consistency. Some people prefer a chunkier texture, while others like it smoother. Don’t over-mash them into a paste; leave some texture.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients.
- Add the vegan mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, dried dill, and celery seed (if using) to the bowl with the mashed chickpeas.
Step 4: Mix Well.
- Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
Step 5: Season to Taste.
- Season the chickpea “tuna” salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can also add any optional ingredients at this stage, such as chopped fresh parsley, chopped pickles or relish, or a pinch of paprika for color and flavor.
Step 6: Chill (Optional).
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chickpea “tuna” salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. However, you can enjoy it immediately if you prefer.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your chickpea “tuna” salad in your favorite ways:
- Sandwiches or Wraps: Spread it generously on bread, toast, or in a wrap with lettuce, tomato, and other desired fillings.
- Crackers or Vegetables: Use it as a dip or topping for crackers, celery sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
- Salad Topping: Add a scoop to a bed of mixed greens for a protein-packed and flavorful salad.
- Stuffed Avocado or Tomatoes: Fill halved avocados or hollowed-out tomatoes with the chickpea salad.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Chickpea “Tuna” Salad! It’s a versatile and satisfying meal or snack that everyone can enjoy.
