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Healthy Tuna Garbanzo Bean Salad Recipe

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4.9 from 97 reviews

This Healthy Tuna Garbanzo Bean Salad is a nutritious and flavorful dish combining protein-rich tuna and chickpeas with a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying snack, this salad offers a refreshing blend of fresh dill, celery, red onion, and capers, all tossed in a tangy lemon-Dijon dressing with a hint of heat from optional hot sauce.

Ingredients

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

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until well combined to create a smooth and flavorful dressing.
  2. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. If you prefer, peel and discard any loose skins from the chickpeas. Transfer the chickpeas to a medium bowl and optionally mash some using a fork to help the salad bind better.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add tuna, celery, minced red onion, capers, and fresh dill to the bowl with the chickpeas. Pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients. Stir gently until all components are well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve Your Chickpea and Tuna Salad: Serve the salad inside a sandwich or wrap, atop a bed of arugula, or paired with your favorite crackers. Enjoy the diverse flavors and textures of this versatile and healthy meal!

Notes

  • Use freshly ground black pepper for enhanced flavor in the dressing.
  • Peeling chickpeas is optional but helps create a smoother texture.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your heat preference or omit for a milder taste.
  • For added crunch, you can include some chopped celery or fresh vegetables.
  • This salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.