Name: Classic Vegan Tuna Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 (15 oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise; 1/3 cup finely chopped celery; 1/4 cup finely diced red onions; 1 1/2 tablespoons sweet relish; 1 tablespoon mustard of choice; 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 sheet finely shredded nori OR 1-2 tablespoons dulse flakes (optional but highly recommended); 1/8 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper; Salt to taste; 8 slices of toasted bread; Sliced tomatoes; Thinly sliced red onions; Lettuce or spinach

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 34 reviews

If you have ever missed the comforting flavors of a classic seafood salad but want to stick to a plant-based lifestyle, this Classic Vegan Tuna Salad Recipe is an absolute game-changer. It captures all the beloved textures and tangy zing you crave, using simple pantry staples and clever ingredients that imitate that delicate “sea” flavor. Creamy, zesty, slightly savory, and perfectly chunky – this salad is great for quick lunches, picnics, or anytime you want a flavorful, wholesome meal without the fish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a thick, creamy mixture in a clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface. The mixture has a chunky texture with layers of small beige chickpeas, small pieces of light green celery, tiny purple onion bits, and flecks of green herbs all mixed evenly in a light creamy sauce. A silver spoon scoops up a generous serving of this mixture, showing the mix’s dense, creamy, and uneven texture. The background is softly blurred, focusing on the rich details of the creamy chickpea salad photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this salad plays an essential role: from creamy vegan mayo that binds everything together, to the seaweed that brings a briny, “tuna-like” flavor. These simple pantry staples come together to create a dish rich in texture, color, and taste.

Chickpeas: The hearty base that mimics the texture of tuna when mashed just right.
Vegan mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness and balances the tangy flavors.
Celery: Provides crunch and a fresh bite, giving great texture contrast.
Red onions: Adds a mild sharpness and a beautiful pop of color.
Sweet relish: Lends sweetness and tiny bursts of flavor that brighten the salad.
Mustard: Delivers a zesty kick; choose your favorite kind for subtle variation.
Lemon juice: Brings freshness and enhances the overall brightness.
Nori sheet or dulse flakes: The magic ingredient for that ocean-inspired umami taste.
Black pepper and salt: To season perfectly and round out the flavors.
Toasted bread slices: Ideal for serving this salad in a satisfying, crunchy sandwich.
Tomatoes, lettuce or spinach: Fresh toppings that add freshness and balance to the sandwich.

How to Make Classic Vegan Tuna Salad Recipe

Step 1: Mash the Chickpeas

Start by draining and rinsing a can of chickpeas to remove any excess salt or starch. Place them in a bowl and gently mash them with a fork or potato masher until they reach your favorite tuna-like texture. We like to keep some chunks for that authentic bite, but feel free to mash it smoother if you prefer.

Step 2: Combine the Flavorful Ingredients

To the mashed chickpeas, add vegan mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, diced red onions, sweet relish, mustard, and lemon juice. Don’t forget the finely shredded nori sheet or dulse flakes, which bring that unmistakable ocean essence to the salad. Sprinkle in black pepper and salt to taste. Mix all these ingredients together thoroughly so every bite is full of flavor.

Step 3: Adjust and Experiment to Make It Your Own

Taste your salad and adjust it for creaminess, tang, or the intensity of the “sea” flavor. Want more ocean vibes? Add extra nori or dulse. Prefer it creamier? Stir in more vegan mayo. Craving a sharper bite? A little extra mustard or relish will do the trick. Feel empowered to customize this recipe until it feels just right for your palate.

How to Serve Classic Vegan Tuna Salad Recipe

A sandwich with three clear layers is shown close-up on a white plate with a wooden edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer has a leaf of crisp green lettuce resting on a slice of dark seeded bread dotted with white and black seeds. On top of the lettuce is a thick, creamy chickpea spread with visible small seeds and bits of chickpeas. Above the spread lies a bright red tomato slice followed by a thin, translucent purple onion slice. Another slice of the same dark seeded bread with visible seeds crowns the sandwich. The background is softly blurred with a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Crisp lettuce or fresh spinach paired with thin slices of tomato and red onion elevate this vegan tuna salad to a whole new level. These garnishes add freshness, a bit of crunch, and additional natural sweetness that perfectly balance the creamy salad.

Side Dishes

This salad goes wonderfully with light sides such as fresh fruit, crunchy pickles, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, pair it with baked sweet potato fries or a bowl of vegetable soup, which highlights the versatility of this dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t limit yourself to sandwiches. Spoon this salad into crisp lettuce cups for an easy, gluten-free wrap, or stuff it into pita pockets for a portable lunch. You can even serve it as a dip with crackers or vegetable sticks for a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This salad holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out. Its flavors often develop further after resting, making leftovers even tastier.

Freezing

Because of the mayonnaise-based texture and fresh ingredients, freezing isn’t ideal for this salad. The texture may become watery or mushy upon thawing. For best results, prepare fresh or enjoy leftovers within a few days.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as the ingredients and textures are meant to shine chilled, preserving the creamy and crisp contrasts.

FAQs

Can I use other beans besides chickpeas?

Chickpeas are preferred for their texture and mild flavor, but you could experiment with white beans like cannellini or navy beans. Just keep in mind the taste and consistency will change, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

Is nori necessary?

While optional, nori or dulse flakes are what give this salad the characteristic seafood-like flavor. Without them, it will still be delicious but less reminiscent of traditional tuna salad.

What kind of vegan mayonnaise works best?

Choose a creamy vegan mayo that you enjoy. Some brands have a more neutral taste, while others include tangier or slightly sweet notes, so pick one that matches your flavor preference.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the toasted bread for gluten-free bread, lettuce wraps, or serve it as a scoop with crackers that are gluten-free. The salad itself contains no gluten ingredients.

How can I add more protein?

This salad is already quite protein-rich thanks to the chickpeas. However, adding some shelled edamame or hemp seeds can boost the protein content while complementing the flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

Making the Classic Vegan Tuna Salad Recipe is a simple way to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful meal that honors plant-based eating without sacrificing taste or texture. It’s perfect for busy weekdays, relaxed weekends, or anytime you want a nourishing dish that feels like a comforting classic. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own. Trust me, this will become one of your favorite go-to vegan recipes!

Classic Vegan Tuna Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need