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Tuna and Green Bean Pasta Salad

Tuna and Green Bean Pasta Salad for a Vibrant Summer Bite

This Tuna and Green Bean Pasta Salad is a nutritious and filling option for warm evenings, bursting with flavor and vibrant colors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb green beans Adds crunch and vibrant color; snap peas or asparagus can be used for variety.
  • 2 large potatoes Provides heartiness and texture; sweet potatoes can offer a sweeter flavor profile.
  • 1/2 lb tricolor pasta Offers visual appeal and substance; any short pasta can work.
  • 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes Contributes sweetness and juiciness; diced firm tomatoes can replace them.
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil Adds freshness and aromatic qualities; fresh parsley can be used if basil is unavailable.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley Complements the basil with its own flavor; cilantro can be a different herbal note.
  • 9 oz canned tuna, drained Offers protein and convenience; salmon or chickpeas can be used as a substitute.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Adds acid and brightness to the dish; white wine vinegar can be an alternate tang.
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped Infuses flavor into the dressing; garlic powder can work as a substitute.
  • 1/3 cup olive oil Serves as the base for the dressing, adding richness; avocado oil can be a different flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Enhances flavor depth; fresh oregano may be used for a more intense taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances flavors; use less if watching sodium intake.
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a touch of heat; white pepper can be used for a milder flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully add the 1 lb of green beans and let them cook for 4-5 minutes, until they are bright green and tender but still crisp. Drain the beans in a colander and set them aside to cool while you prepare the next ingredients.
  2. Using the same pot, fill it again with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook them for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and let them sit while you move on to the pasta, allowing any excess moisture to escape.
  3. Return the water in the pot to a boil once more. Add in the 1/2 lb of tricolor pasta and cook according to the package instructions. For al dente pasta, this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool.
  4. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic, 1/3 cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is well blended and emulsified, creating a zesty base for the salad.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, chopped flat-leaf parsley, drained canned tuna, cooked green beans, potatoes, and pasta. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss everything gently to coat.
  6. For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the fresh flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. Serve the Tuna and Green Bean Pasta Salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing main dish or side salad for your summer gatherings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 18gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Allow salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor. Fresh ingredients are key for the best results.

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