This Chickpea Tuna Salad Sandwich is a delicious vegetarian lunch idea. It's so simple to make, too! Meal prep the filling for quick lunches.
Whether you’re vegetarian or just craving something fresh and satisfying, this easy sandwich is a must-try. Serve it on toasted bread, in a wrap, or scooped into lettuce cups for a lighter option!
Why you'll love this recipe
- It’s totally vegetarian: A great alternative that still has all the classic tuna salad vibes.
- Quick and easy: You just need pantry staples and it's ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients and substitutions
- Chickpeas – you could also use fresh chickpeas, but you’ll need to cook them first.
- Celery – carrot would also add some crunch to your chickpea salad.
- Red onion – white onion can be used but it has a milder flavour.
- Light mayo – use regular mayo if it’s all you have on hand.
- Red wine vinegar – apple cider vinegar is the best substitute here.
- Garlic powder – onion powder would provide a similar taste.
- Curry powder – make your own using a blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric and black pepper.
- Fresh dill – dried dill can be used in a pinch.
- Whole wheat bread – feel free to serve your chickpea salad in any bread of your choice or lettuce wraps for a low carb option.
How to make chickpea “tuna” salad
Step 1: Mash the chickpeas.
Put chickpeas in a bowl and mash.
Step 2: Add in the remaining ingredients.
Drop in the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mix everything together.
Mix in remaining ingredients. Let sit for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy!
Serve between 2 slices of bread.
Recipe tips and variation
- Drain well: Make sure to fully drain and rinse your chickpeas to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes helps the flavours meld together really nicely.
- Mediterranean style: Add chopped olives, cucumber, sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of oregano.
- Avocado twist: Swap out the mayo for mashed avocado for a creamier version.
- Spicy kick: Mix in sriracha, hot sauce or diced jalapeño for extra bite.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this without a masher?
Yes, a fork works fine if you don’t mind a chunkier mix. Press the back of the fork into the chickpeas until they break down enough to bind everything together.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread lightly before assembling and avoid adding too much dressing or wet ingredients like tomato slices until you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, simply swap the mayo for a plant-based version to keep it vegan.
Should I remove the chickpea skins?
It’s not necessary, but if you want a smoother texture, you can rub the chickpeas with a clean towel or paper towel to loosen and discard some of the skins.
What to serve with chickpea salad sandwich
I love serving this chickpea tuna salad in between two slices of toasted or untoasted whole wheat bread for a healthy and delicious sandwich! If you’re looking for ideas on what to serve on the side, here are some of my favourite options:
- Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery and bell peppers
- Potato chips or kettle chips
- Sweet potato fries
- Dill pickles
How to store and reheat
Make-ahead: Prepare chickpea salad, store separately, and assemble sandwiches just before serving.
Store: Refrigerate chickpea salad in an airtight container, 3-4 days.
Meal prep tools
- Grab some glass meal prep bowls to pack up any leftover chickpea salad.
Vegetarian Chickpea Tuna Salad Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas rinsed and drained
- 2 stalks celery finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
- 1/3 cup light mayo
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or 1 tsp dried dill
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 pinch pepper
- 8 slices whole wheat bread optional, to make sandwiches
Instructions
- Mash chickpeas roughly in a large bowl, then mix in remaining ingredients except for bread. Let sit for 30 minutes for flavours to fully form.
- Serve between 2 slices of bread (toasted or untoasted) then serve and enjoy!
Comments & Reviews
Tara says
I’m reminded to make this again! I absolutely love this alternative if you’re tired of the true tuna! It keeps so well. Love it in lettuce cups for “Slow” carb option. *Don’t forget to keep the aquafaba for future use!!