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tuna pasta salad with lemon and basil on the side

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad with White Beans

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  • Author: Joanie Simon
  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 10 min
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 - 8
  • Category: Salads, Side Dish
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A brightened, lightened version of a forgotten classic. Creamy lemon dressing, cannellini beans, fresh basil, and tuna come together in a pasta salad worth remembering.


Ingredients

  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz pasta, cooked, rinsed, and drained (I use Brami lupini bean pasta)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1 can (7 oz) tuna, drained
  • 1 can (15.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ cup fresh basil, chiffonade


Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the cooked and cooled pasta, red onion, tuna, cannellini beans, and fresh basil.
  3. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Notes

Tuna: One can makes a great side dish. Use two cans for a heartier main.

Beans: Cannellini are ideal but great northern or navy beans work well too.

Make-ahead: This salad gets better as it sits. If the dressing thickens in the fridge, loosen with a splash of lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size:
  • Calories: 284
  • Sugar: 1.8 g
  • Sodium: 315.4 mg
  • Fat: 14.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27.9 g
  • Fiber: 5.2 g
  • Protein: 14.3 g
  • Cholesterol: 14.2 mg