Mediterranean Tuna Salad with Chickpeas and Olives 🥗🐟

This vibrant Mediterranean Tuna Salad is a delightful combination of fresh flavors and hearty ingredients. Packed with protein from tuna and chickpeas, and the brininess of olives, this dish is not only filling but also incredibly refreshing. Perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or as a side dish at your next gathering!

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 cans of tuna in olive oil, drained
• 1 can of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

For the dressing

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the tuna, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley.

🥄 Toss gently to mix all the ingredients without breaking up the tuna too much. A light hand will keep the ingredients intact and maintain their vibrant colors.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss again lightly to ensure everything is coated.

🍋 Feel free to adjust the acidity of the dressing by adding more lemon juice or mustard, depending on your taste preference. Fresh herbs can also be added for an extra flavor punch!

• Add crumbled feta on top, if using, and give it one last gentle toss.

• Serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad is great the next day too, as the flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Variations

• Add crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for extra texture and nutty flavor. 🥜
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat! 🌶️
• Vegan: Omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based feta or creamy avocado for a rich finish. 🥑
• Mediterranean twist: Incorporate artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for an added depth of flavor. 🫒

This Mediterranean Tuna Salad is both nourishing and full of life, making it a fantastic choice for your next meal! Enjoy as a light main course or a side that will impress anyone at your dining table! 🌟