Tuna Niçoise Pasta Salad
June 27, 2024
Based on the classic Salade Niçoise, this version has the same key elements — eggs, tomatoes, olives and preserved fish — but with a pasta base (instead of the usual potatoes or beans) and a tuna twist. Add in briny capers, tangy Dijon and earthy shallots, and you have a salad with big, bold flavors, eye-catching colors and vibrant, complementary textures. It’s a treat for your senses and a delightful dinner or satisfying side dish any time of year.
SERVINGS
4
PREP TIME
20 min
COOK TIME
15 min
Ingredients
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⅓cup plus 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
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2tablespoons red wine vinegar
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2anchovies, minced
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1tablespoon minced shallots
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2teaspoons Dijon mustard
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1garlic clove, minced
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Kosher salt, to taste
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12ounces fusilli, rotini, or gemelli pasta
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6ounces French green beans
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1cup halved cherry tomatoes
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3hard-boiled eggs, quartered
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6ounces oil-packed tuna, drained and rough chopped
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2tablespoons chopped pitted Castelvetrano olives
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2tablespoons chopped pitted Kalamata olives
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Capers, drained, for garnish
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Fresh chopped dill, for garnish
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Fresh torn basil, for garnish
Directions
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1
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, anchovies, shallots, Dijon mustard and garlic. Whisk vigorously until emulsified, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and set aside.
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2
Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring to a boil over high heat. Season heavily with salt and add the pasta. Cook the pasta for 11 minutes, then add the green beans to the pasta and water. Cook for 1 minute until the pasta is al dente and the green beans are just tender.
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3
Strain the pasta and green beans and rinse with cold water. Transfer them to a large bowl and add half of the dressing. Toss to coat well.
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4
Transfer the pasta and green beans to a large serving platter. Place the cherry tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, tuna, Castelvetrano olives and Kalamata olives on top.
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5
Drizzle the remaining dressing over the pasta salad and garnish with the capers, dill and basil.
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6
Serve immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Recipe source: Dishing Out Health