Summer is all about freshness; from icy treats to creamy salad, we all need something light. Just like a Tuna Salad… but for my vegetarian and vegan friends, Tuna salad is not really an option. Well, not anymore. This Mock Tuna Salad has that same delicious creamy taste with a little sea-like flavor. You only need heart of palm and chickpeas for texture and nori and tamari for flavor. These super ingredients are not just delicious but also have amazing health benefits.
The recipe itself is very simple and requires minimum preparation and a food processor. Read on to learn more!
What is Heart of Palm?
The heart of palm is actually a vegetable harvested from the inside of palm trees. It is usually available as a canned food. The texture and flavor are similar to artichoke hearts or water chestnuts. It is very tender, a little crunchy, and juicy, too. Flavor-wise, it is delicately sweet and nutty.
Health benefits of Heart of Palm and Chickpeas
Both ingredients have many health benefits. The heart of palm is great for the heart and brain and helps repair tissues. Moreover, it is rich in fiber and protein.
Chickpeas are a superfood packed with nutrients. They are full of protein, help in better digestion, and a small amount will make you feel fuller for a long time. Just like heart of palm, they promote heart and brain health.
You Will Need…
- Hearts of Palm: The heart of palm is generally tender, so you can dice it easily. The texture is the key to this mock salad, and the heart of palm is perfect for it.
- Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a versatile ingredient. Their nutty and earthy flavor complements other flavors.
- Dill Pickle: Dill pickle is super boring, garlicky, harby and, of course, tangy.
- Red Onion: Red Onion is perfect for salad or raw eating. Its sweetness and crunchiness make it deliciously good.
- Celery: Celery will add an element of crunch to the salad. Even though you may think the taste of celery is not noticeable in the salad, it does impart a pleasant bitterness.
- Garlic: Garlic will bring an intense flavour that is slightly spicy and nutty.
- Nori: Nori is super crunchy seaweed that comes in sheets. It tastes like the sea, with a rich umami flavor and a little sweetness without fishiness.
- Vegan mayonnaise: You can use any vegan mayonnaise of choice.
- Tamari: Tamari is more like Japanese soy sauce. It is gluten-free and has a deep umami flavor.
Serving Ideas
Mock Tuna Salad is a versatile dish that you can enjoy in various ways. Serve it on toast for a quick and satisfying meal, or as a dip with pitas or chips for an appetizer. For a more elegant presentation, try making canapés with crackers which are perfect for parties. If you are looking for a lighter option, use it as a filling for lettuce cups, creating a fresh and healthy snack. Additionally, you can also use Mock Tuna Salad in tacos.
Mock Tuna Salad
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) hearts of palm (drained)
- 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- ¼ cup dill pickle (diced)
- 2 tablespoon red onion (diced)
- 2 ribs celery (diced)
- 1 clove garlic (chopped)
- ½ sheet nori (cut into fine pieces)
- ⅓ cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoon tamari
Instructions
- Add chickpeas and hearts of palm to a food processor. Pulse until nicely mixed but not mushy – you want a little texture. Scrape down sides as needed.
- To a large mixing bowl, add all of the other ingredients. Combine with chickpea and hearts of palm.
- Mix well and keep cold in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Notes
- Serve on toasted sourdough bread, or better yet on romaine lettuce as boats.
