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, especially for warm days when a light yet satisfying meal is just what's needed.
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 salad often brings my family together on sunny afternoons, sharing stories and enjoying the fresh flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled or at room temperature with a crisp white wine for a refreshing meal.
Variations
Try substituting chickpeas for the white beans or adding baby spinach for extra greens.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving.
Save This pasta salad is a quick, tasty option that fits well into any meal plan and brightens up your table.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?
Yes, substituting gluten-free pasta works well and keeps the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets without compromising texture.
- → What type of tuna works best here?
White tuna packed in olive oil or water both work well; olive oil adds richness while water keeps it lighter.
- → How spicy is the chili-lime dressing?
The chili flakes add a mild to moderate heat that's easily adjustable to taste by increasing or reducing the amount.
- → Can other beans be substituted for white beans?
Yes, chickpeas or other mild-flavored beans make great substitutes without altering the overall taste significantly.
- → Is it better served chilled or at room temperature?
Chilling for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor melding, though it can be served at room temperature if preferred.