5 Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad

This 5 minute Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad is a quick, protein-packed meal with a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors. Fresh ingredients like chickpeas, tuna, olives, and lemon make it nutritious, filling, and delicious—all in just 5 minutes!

Hearty salads are the best, and when they include protein and fiber, they become even more filling and nutritious. This quick 5-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad is perfect for days when you have no time or desire to prepare lunch but still want a healthy, unprocessed meal.

For this recipe, I use canned chickpeas and tuna. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein, and I enhance the flavor with Kalamata olives, capers, and for crunch, chopped cucumber and celery. To finish, I drizzle extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle antioxidant-rich dried oregano, and add a squeeze of lemon juice.

This salad makes a great lunch option. Since it doesn’t contain mayonnaise, it doesn’t require constant refrigeration and stays fresh for three to four days in the fridge.

Delicious Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad: The Dietitian’s Take

This Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad is packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full and supporting digestive health. The combination of chickpeas, tuna, and olive oil provides heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and 45 grams of protein. The additions of olives and capers add even more antioxidants and hardly any saturated fat compared to your typical mayonnaise rich tuna salads. This is nutrient-dense, easy to make and delicious.

5-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad Ingredients

• Chickpeas: Choose low-sodium canned or cook from dried for better texture.
• Tuna: Opt for sustainably sourced, either in olive oil or water.
• Kalamata Olives: Use pitted olives for easier chopping.
• Capers: Rinse well to reduce excess saltiness.
• Cucumber: Pick a firm, seedless variety like Persian or English.
• Celery: Look for crisp, fresh stalks for the best crunch.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Choose cold-pressed, high-quality for rich flavor.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Aged vinegar adds a slightly sweet depth.
• Dried Oregano: Use organic, aromatic oregano for better antioxidants.
• Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemons for bright, zesty flavor.

How to Make Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad

1. Take a large bowl and add the chickpeas, Kalamata olives (sliced or chopped), capers, chopped cucumber, sliced celery stalk and tuna.
2. In a small bowl, mix: 1 teaspoon of balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon. of extra virgin olive oil
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
4. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving and sprinkle with dried oregano.

Mediterranean-Inspired Additions for Your Chickpea Tuna Salad

Enhance your Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad with these flavorful additions that bring extra texture, freshness, and authentic Mediterranean taste.

• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Intensifies the Mediterranean taste with natural sweetness.
• Roasted Red Peppers – Brings a smoky and slightly sweet touch.
• Artichoke Hearts – Adds a tender, slightly tangy bite.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil – Enhances freshness and aroma.
• Red Onion or Shallots – Provides a sharp, slightly sweet crunch.
• Pine Nuts, Almonds or Walnuts – Adds a nutty crunch and healthy fats.
• Tahini Drizzle – Gives a creamy, nutty richness.
• Pomegranate Seeds – Introduces a burst of sweetness and antioxidants.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chickpea Tuna Salad

• You can enjoy this salad as is—it’s delicious, filling, and doesn’t necessarily require extra carbohydrates, as chickpeas already provide a good amount. However, if you’d like, you can serve it:
• On Toast or Bread: Spoon the salad over a slice of hearty whole grain bread for an open-faced sandwich. Try it on sourdough, rye, or multigrain toast for extra texture and flavor. Add a spread of hummus or tahini
• In a Pita Pocket: Stuff the salad into a whole wheat pita. Add some Greek yogurt or tzatziki for extra creaminess.
• In a leafy green salad: Serve the tuna over spinach, arugula, or other greens. .Sprinkle with toasted nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
• With Olive Oil Crackers : Use whole grain crackers, 3 Ingredient Baked Phyllo Chips or Parmesan Toasts
• Mediterranean Bowl: Build a Mediterranean grain bowl by serving the salad over brown rice or bulgur wheat. Add roasted vegetables and a dollop of hummus or Greek yogurt for a balanced meal.

Want More Mediterranean Diet Guidance? Get my top-rated book!

Get it here >> The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners