Mediterranean Tuna and Cannellini Bean Salad

Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli Recipe

Overview

Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli is a delightful dish perfect for a quick summer lunch or as an elegant appetizer salad. It combines the richness of tuna with the earthy flavors of cannellini beans, complemented by the sharpness of red onion and the freshness of celery. This dish is enhanced by a simple yet flavorful dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and aromatic dried oregano.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour (chill time)
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

Dressing

The dressing for Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of the dish. Here’s how you prepare it:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and olive oil until well combined.
2. Add the dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If the dressing is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little bit of the reserved bean liquid.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:

   • Start by mixing the red wine vinegar and olive oil in a bowl until they emulsify.
   • Add the dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness by incorporating some of the reserved bean liquid if needed.

2. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a larger bowl, combine the tuna (along with its olive oil), cannellini beans, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, and finely chopped celery.
   • Gently mix everything together, ensuring the tuna breaks up into smaller chunks and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Chill and Serve:

   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container.
   • Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. This chilling time is crucial as it allows the salad to develop its full flavor profile.
   • Before serving, allow the dish to come to room temperature for the best taste experience.

Tips for Serving

• Garnish Options: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
• Accompaniments: Serve Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli on a bed of mixed greens or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
• Variations: Feel free to customize the dish by adding olives, cherry tomatoes, or even capers for extra tanginess.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 326.7
• Total Fat: 16.1g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 16.1mg
• Sodium: 68.6mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26.5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 6.6g
  • Sugars: 0.9g
• Protein: 19.9g

Final Thoughts

Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli not only makes a satisfying lunch but also serves as a fantastic appetizer for gatherings. Its blend of Mediterranean flavors, combined with the ease of preparation, makes it a go-to recipe for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Whether enjoyed chilled on a hot summer day or as a light starter during any season, this dish is sure to please with its simplicity and robust taste. Buon appetito! 🍽️