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 salad has become a staple in my kitchen for those busy days when I want something healthy and flavorful without much fuss.
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 around the table, making lunches and quick dinners something to look forward to.
Notes
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
Allergen Information
Contains fish (tuna) and mustard. Pasta may contain gluten use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. Double-check all canned and packaged ingredients for allergy information.
Save This salad is a perfect balance of zest and creaminess, delivering refreshing flavors in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can different pasta types be used?
Yes, short pastas like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well to hold the dressing and mix nicely with the other ingredients.
- → Is it necessary to chill before serving?
Chilling for about 15 minutes allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste, but it can be enjoyed immediately if needed.
- → How can the spice level be adjusted?
Adjust chili flakes to taste or add sliced fresh chili for more heat. Reducing chili flakes will tone down the spice.
- → Can other beans be substituted?
Yes, chickpeas or other white beans can be used as alternatives to cannellini or great northern beans.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve on baby spinach or arugula beds for extra greens, and pair with crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé.