Creamy Dill Tuna & Chickpea Protein Salad

Creamy Dill Tuna & Chickpea Protein Salad is the kind of simple, nourishing recipe that fits beautifully into busy, real-life cooking. First of all, it comes together quickly, yet it still feels fresh, balanced, and satisfying. Because it blends tender tuna with creamy chickpeas, every bite delivers protein without feeling heavy.

At the same time, fresh dill and lemon add brightness, which keeps the flavors clean and modern. Meanwhile, a light yogurt-based dressing brings everything together, creating a salad that feels indulgent but stays wholesome. Whether you serve it for lunch, meal prep it for the week, or enjoy it as a light dinner, it adapts easily.

Interestingly, chickpeas have been used in Mediterranean cooking for centuries because they add both texture and nutrition. When paired with tuna, they create a naturally satisfying combination that doesn’t need complicated ingredients. Ultimately, this recipe proves that protein-packed meals can be effortless, flavorful, and comforting all at once.

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 ½ cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 5-oz cans tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
½ cup finely diced celery
⅓ cup finely diced red onion
¼ cup chopped fresh dill
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 Tbsp mayonnaise
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp olive oil
½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the base:
First, add the chickpeas to a large bowl. Using the back of a fork, gently mash about one-third of them to create a creamy texture while keeping the rest whole.

2. Add protein and crunch:
Next, fold in the flaked tuna, celery, and red onion. Stir gently until evenly combined.

3. Mix the dressing:
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and balanced.

4. Combine and finish:
Then, pour the dressing over the tuna mixture. Add the chopped dill and fold carefully until everything is coated but still textured.

5. Chill and serve:
Finally, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

• Balance the creaminess: Mashing only part of the chickpeas ensures a creamy base while still keeping satisfying texture throughout the salad.
• Boost fresh flavor: Always add dill at the end, because it keeps the flavor bright and aromatic instead of muted.
• Make it meal-ready: This salad tastes even better after chilling, since the lemon and mustard mellow while the tuna absorbs flavor.