Here’s a recipe for a delicious “No-Tuna” Salad Sandwich! This plant-based twist on a classic tuna salad features mashed chickpeas, a creamy tahini dressing, and tangy flavors from pickles and capers. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for salads.
“No-Tuna” Salad Sandwich
Serves: 2–4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the “No-Tuna” Salad:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 2 tbsp tahini (or vegan mayonnaise for a creamier texture)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp pickle relish (or finely chopped pickles)
- 1 tbsp capers, drained and chopped
- 1 small celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 green onion, finely sliced (or 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped)
- 1 tsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices of your favorite bread (toasted, if desired)
- 4 leaves of lettuce (e.g., romaine or butter lettuce)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Optional: 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the “No-Tuna” Salad
- In a large bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash the chickpeas. Leave some chunks for texture.
- Add tahini, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, pickle relish, capers, celery, green onion, and soy sauce. Mix until well combined.
- Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Adjust flavors as desired (add more lemon juice for tanginess or tahini for creaminess).
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread a generous amount of the “No-Tuna” salad on one slice of bread.
- Top with lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and optional avocado slices.
- Place the second slice of bread on top and press gently.
- Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
- Wraps: Use the “No-Tuna” salad as a filling for whole-grain tortillas or collard greens.
- Salad topper: Serve over a bed of greens with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
- Cracker dip: Pair with crackers or veggie sticks for a quick snack.
Tips & Variations:
- Make it nutty: Add a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter for an extra nutty flavor.
- Add texture: Toss in sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or dried cranberries.
- Gluten-free option: Serve on gluten-free bread or in a lettuce wrap.
- Storage: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This “No-Tuna” Salad Sandwich is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep.