Pasta salad with tuna, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes

Name: Pasta salad with tuna, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes - Lucia J.
Ingredients: For the dressing: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons chicken broth; 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 3 tablespoons fresh basil chopped or 1 tablespoon dried; 1 small red onion; salt/pepper. For the salad: 150 grams penne; 60 grams arugula; 1 can of tuna in water; 30 grams Parmesan flakes; 6 sun; dried tomatoes.

Pasta/Pizza - Pasta salad with tuna, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes by Lucia J. - Recipia

Pasta salad with tuna, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Total time: 25 minutes Number of servings: 4 Discover the taste of summer with this refreshing pasta salad, full of flavors and textures. Combining pasta with juicy tuna, crunchy arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes, this recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile. Whether you want to serve it as a light main dish or as a side with meat, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The history of pasta salads dates back to ancient times, being an excellent way to combine various ingredients into one dish. Nowadays, pasta salads are popular all over the world due to their versatility and the possibility of customizing them to suit individual tastes and preferences. Ingredients: For the dressing: - 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 3 tablespoons chicken broth (you can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option) - 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar - 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped or 1 tablespoon dried - 1 small red onion - Salt and pepper to taste For the salad: - 150 grams penne (or another type of short pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle) - 60 grams arugula - 1 can of tuna in water (about 150-200 grams) - 30 grams Parmesan flakes (or feta cheese for a saltier note) - 6 sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped Preparation: 1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite, giving it a pleasant texture. 2. Drain and cool the pasta: Once the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander and rinse it with cold water. This step is essential to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from becoming sticky. 3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, finely chop the red onion. Add the extra virgin olive oil, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, fresh basil (or dried), salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix the ingredients well until you achieve a smooth dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. 4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, arugula, tuna broken into large pieces, finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan flakes. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix so that all the ingredients combine harmoniously without breaking the pasta. 5. Serve with style: This pasta salad is delicious served immediately, but it can be even better if you let it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. You can add a few fresh basil leaves as a garnish and an extra drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a tempting look. Practical tips: - Choose whole grain pasta: If you want to improve the nutritional value of the salad, opt for whole grain pasta. They are high in fiber and will help you feel full longer. - Add vegetables: You can play with the recipe by adding seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or olives. These will add not only color but also nutrients. - For vegans: Replace the tuna with cooked chickpeas or marinated tofu for a vegan version, and the cheese with nutritional yeast or a mix of ground nuts for a similar taste. Nutritional benefits: This pasta salad is not only tasty but also healthy. Arugula is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, while tuna provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, important benefits for heart health. Sun-dried tomatoes add antioxidants, and extra virgin olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, you can use rice flour pasta or other gluten-free grains, and the result will be just as delicious. 2. What other dressings can I use? Instead of the red wine vinegar dressing, you can try a yogurt-based dressing or a mustard sauce for a different note. 3. How can I store the salad for the next day? Season the salad with the dressing just before serving to avoid the pasta becoming soggy. Keep everything in an airtight container in the fridge. Perfect pairings: This pasta salad with tuna, arugula, and sun-dried tomatoes pairs excellently with a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade, providing you with a perfect meal for hot summer days. You can also accompany it with a crusty roll or a fragrant focaccia. Let your creativity flow in the kitchen and enjoy every bite of this vibrant salad! It can easily become your favorite recipe for picnics, barbecues, or simply a light family dinner.

Category: Pasta/Pizza Author: Lucia J. Views: 1 Date: 04.10.2024

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