Pin 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 quickly became a favorite at our family picnics, loved for its refreshing flavors and simple 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.
Pin This dish brings joy to family meals and picnics alike with its refreshing and wholesome ingredients.
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
Pin Enjoy this salad chilled for a refreshing taste any time of the year.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold up well and allow the dressing to coat evenly.
- → Can I substitute the white beans with another type?
Yes, chickpeas are a flavorful alternative that complement the tuna and vegetables nicely.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Increase or reduce chili flakes in the dressing, or add fresh sliced chili for extra heat.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it holds well refrigerated and flavors improve after chilling for at least 15 minutes.
- → What drinks pair well with this pasta?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé perfectly complement the zesty and fresh flavors.