Pasta salad

Pasta Salad with Tuna and Quail Eggs - A Delicacy for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world! Today, I present to you a pasta salad recipe that is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. This salad is perfect for quick lunches, family dinners, or even as an appetizer at a party. The combination of fresh and flavorful ingredients makes it not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

A Brief History

Pasta salad is a recipe that has gained popularity worldwide due to its versatility. Its origins can be closely linked to summer meals, providing an excellent way to use leftover pasta and combine various ingredients in one bowl. It is a dish that allows creativity in ingredient selection, making each preparation unique.

Ingredients

- 300 g spiral vegetable pasta (or your preferred type)
- 100 g cherry tomatoes
- 100 g canned tuna in oil (well drained)
- 8 quail eggs
- 100 g pressed ham
- 1 can of anchovy-stuffed olives (about 30)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. Add the spiral pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Cool the Pasta: Once the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the pasta's crunchy texture. After cooling, transfer it to a large bowl.

3. Add Olive Oil: Pour a tablespoon of olive oil over the cooled pasta and mix well to prevent sticking. The olive oil will not only flavor the pasta but also help keep it moist.

4. Boil the Quail Eggs: In a small pot, add the quail eggs and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and let them cook for 4-5 minutes for a firm but not too hard consistency. Once ready, transfer them immediately to cold water to stop the cooking. Carefully peel them and cut them in half or quarters, as desired.

5. Prepare Ingredients: Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preferred size. Drain the olives well and also cut them in halves. Slice the pressed ham into thin strips. It is important to use fresh ingredients, as they will add extra flavor to the salad.

6. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are homogeneous. This dressing will add a note of acidity and sweetness that will balance the salad's flavors.

7. Assemble the Salad: Add the pasta to the large bowl, followed by the ham, tomatoes, olives, and drained tuna. Pour the dressing over the ingredients in the bowl and mix gently to avoid breaking the quail eggs. Finally, add the eggs and mix lightly so that they remain whole.

8. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to develop and make the salad even cooler.

Serving

The pasta salad with tuna and quail eggs can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer. It is delicious both cold and at room temperature. You can add a few fresh basil leaves for extra flavor and a more appealing look. You can also pair it with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea or a dry white wine.

Variations and Practical Tips

- Ingredient Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, for extra freshness. Feta or mozzarella cheese can also add a creamy texture.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This salad is rich in protein due to the eggs and tuna, while the pasta provides complex carbohydrates. Each serving contains approximately 400 calories, depending on the type of pasta used. Tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants, and olives provide healthy fats.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain or gluten-free pasta are excellent for a healthier option.
- How can I store the salad? You can keep it in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days.

Personal Note

This pasta salad represents my childhood memories when my mother would prepare this dish for family gatherings. The flavors and colors of the ingredients make me feel at home. I hope you enjoy every bite and create beautiful memories with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!