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 pasta salad has become a favorite in my household for its refreshing flavors and simplicity in preparation.
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 This recipe always brings my family together for a light and tasty meal, perfect for warm days or casual gatherings.
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 per serving.
Save This spicy tuna pasta salad is a fresh and nutritious meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, short pasta such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle works well to hold the dressing and ingredients.
- → Is it necessary to rinse the cooked pasta?
Rinsing the pasta with cold water cools it down and prevents clumping, perfect for this chilled dish.
- → What are good alternatives to white beans?
Substitute cannellini with chickpeas if you prefer a nuttier texture without altering flavors drastically.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the chili flakes amount to your liking or add fresh sliced chili or hot sauce for extra heat.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, letting it chill at least 15 minutes helps the flavors meld, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
- → What pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light rosé complements the zesty, fresh flavors perfectly.