Save A vibrant, protein-packed pasta salad featuring flaky tuna, creamy white beans, and a zesty chili-lime dressing. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household for its fresh flavors and convenience.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 250 g (9 oz) short pasta (penne fusilli or farfalle)
- Protein & Beans: 1 can (160 g/5.6 oz drained) tuna in olive oil or water, 1 can (400 g/14 oz drained and rinsed) cannellini or great northern beans
- Vegetables: 1 small red onion finely diced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 75 g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes halved, 1 small cucumber diced, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Dressing: 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, Juice of 1 lime, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 garlic clove minced, 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste), 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl combine the cooked pasta drained tuna white beans red onion bell pepper cherry tomatoes cucumber and parsley.
- Step 3:
- In a small bowl whisk together the olive oil lime juice red wine vinegar minced garlic chili flakes Dijon mustard salt and pepper until emulsified.
- Step 4:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine ensuring all ingredients are coated.
- Step 5:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Save My family enjoys this salad for picnics and quick lunches especially on warm days.
Notes
For extra heat add sliced fresh chili or a dash of hot sauce. Substitute chickpeas for white beans if desired. Excellent served on a bed of baby spinach or arugula. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé.
Required Tools
Large pot Colander Large mixing bowl Small bowl Whisk Chefs knife Cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 12 g Carbohydrates 52 g Protein 24 g
Save This salad is perfect for meal prep and stays fresh for days refrigerated.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well, maintaining the texture while accommodating dietary needs.
- → What type of tuna is best to use?
Tuna packed in olive oil adds richness, but tuna in water can be used for a lighter flavor.
- → How can I increase the spiciness?
Add fresh sliced chili or a dash of hot sauce to intensify the heat according to your taste.
- → Is it possible to substitute the beans?
Chickpeas are a great alternative to white beans, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → Will the salad keep well if prepared in advance?
Yes, chilling the salad for at least 15 minutes allows flavors to meld and ensures freshness for up to two days.
- → What beverages pair well with this dish?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé complement the zesty and fresh flavors nicely.