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+ servings

Chickpea Salad – A Delicious Alternative to Tuna Salad

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 104 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can of chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup diced cucumber or diced dill pickles
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper optional
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup tomatoes optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Instructions:
  • In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley. ***I smash the chickpeas before adding the veggies.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and toss to coat evenly.
  • Let the chickpea salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

Serving Suggestions & Variations

  • Add Creaminess: Smash an avocado into the salad for a richer texture.
  • Boost Protein: Mix in hemp seeds (3g protein per tbsp), pumpkin seeds (2.5g protein per tbsp), edamame (8g protein per ½ cup), or chopped almonds (3g protein per tbsp).
  • Pair with Grains: Serve with quinoa or on whole-grain toast for a balanced meal.
  • Make it a Wrap: Use a large lettuce leaf or a whole-wheat wrap for a grab-and-go lunch.

Time-Saving Tips

  • Use Canned Chickpeas – Drain and rinse them for a quick, no-cook meal.
  • Smash Ahead of Time – If you prefer smashed chickpeas, mash them in advance and store them in the fridge.
  • Pre-Chop Vegetables – Dice onions, cucumbers (or pickles), and any other add-ins in advance to save time.
  • Make the Dressing Ahead – Whisk the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper and store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Batch Prep for the Week – Make a double batch and store it in the fridge for easy lunches.

Recipe Notes

  • Customization: Add avocado for creaminess, or mix in hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped almonds for extra protein.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve on whole-grain toast, in a lettuce wrap, on crackers, or as a side salad.
  • Storage: Keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Flavor Boost: Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.

Grocery List

Pantry Staples

 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
 Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh Ingredients

1/2 cup diced cucumber or diced dill pickles
1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
 1/4 cup diced red onion
 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
 Juice of 1 lemon

Nutrition

Serving: 0.5cupCalories: 104kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 5gFiber: 1.7g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!