Lemon Tahini Chickpea Tuna Salad
If you’re looking for a protein-packed, creamy, and refreshing lunch that’s quick and easy to whip up, this Lemon Tahini Chickpea Tuna Salad is for you. It’s loaded with nutritious ingredients like tuna, chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and a zesty tahini dressing that brings it all together.
Servings 4
Calories 260kcal
Cost $6–$8
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup red onion finely diced
- ½ cup cucumber diced
- ¼ cup celery diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or dill chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lemon Tahini Dressing
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 –2 tbsp water to thin
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Add water a little at a time until the dressing is smooth and pourable.
- In a large bowl, add rinsed chickpeas and lightly mash them using a fork or potato masher, leaving some whole for texture.
- Stir in the drained tuna, red onion, cucumber, celery, and parsley. Mix gently to combine.
- Pour the lemon tahini dressing over the salad and mix well until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes to let flavors meld. Great on lettuce leaves, in sandwiches, or with crackers.
Notes
- Use high-quality tuna: Choose tuna packed in water for a lighter taste or oil-packed for richness—just be sure to drain it well.
- Adjust texture: Mash chickpeas more or less depending on how creamy or chunky you want the salad.
- Let it chill: For deeper flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
- Make it spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or a spoon of harissa for a kick.