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Healthy Tuna Garbanzo Bean Salad Recipe

4.8 from 68 reviews

This Healthy Tuna Garbanzo Bean Salad combines protein-packed tuna, creamy chickpeas, and fresh herbs with a tangy, flavorful homemade dressing. Perfect as a light meal or snack, it’s easy to make, nutritious, and versatile—great for sandwiches, wraps, or served over greens.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred for more flavor)
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (Hellmann’s mayonnaise recommended)
  • 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)
  • 1 can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
  • 2 tbsp minced red onion
  • 3 tbsp celery (finely chopped)

Instructions

  1. 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 thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well emulsified.
  2. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas well, then pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Optionally, peel off any loose skins for a smoother texture. Transfer the chickpeas to a medium bowl and mash some with a fork if you prefer a creamier salad binding.
  3. Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with chickpeas, add the drained tuna, finely chopped celery, minced red onion, drained capers, and fresh dill. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
  4. Serve Your Chickpea and Tuna Salad: Enjoy this versatile salad as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, served atop a bed of arugula for a fresh green salad, or paired with crackers as a satisfying snack.

Notes

  • For an extra kick, add more hot sauce to taste.
  • Peeling chickpea skins is optional but can improve salad texture.
  • Use fresh dill for the best flavor; dried dill will not provide the same aroma.
  • This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing option.

Keywords: tuna salad, garbanzo bean salad, healthy salad, no-cook salad, chickpea tuna salad, easy lunch recipe