Bright, refreshing, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this Italian Bean and Tuna Salad is the perfect no-cook meal for busy days. Combining protein-rich canned tuna in olive oil with creamy white beans, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and vibrant parsley, this wholesome salad delivers a delightful mix of textures and nutrients. A zesty homemade dressing, crafted from extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar, ties everything together with a burst of savory tang. Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required, itβs a versatile dish thatβs ideal for lunch, as a light dinner, or as a make-ahead meal for easy entertaining. For an extra briny touch, sprinkle on some capers before serving. Quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor, this salad is your new go-to for Italian-inspired simplicity!
Drain and rinse the canned white beans under cold water to remove excess salt or preservatives, then set aside.
Drain the canned tuna, leaving just a little of the olive oil for added flavor, and flake it gently with a fork.
Rinse and halve the cherry tomatoes. Peel and dice the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces. If using, thinly slice the red onion into rings or small strips.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the beans, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
If using, sprinkle capers over the salad for an extra pop of flavor.
Serve immediately or let the salad chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy!
Calories |
1369 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 77.0 g | 99% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.7 g | 58% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 142 mg | 47% | |
| Sodium | 3591 mg | 156% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 84.1 g | 31% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 24.0 g | 86% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.6 g | ||
| Protein | 88.8 g | 178% | |
| Vitamin D | 14.2 mcg | 71% | |
| Calcium | 304 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 14.5 mg | 81% | |
| Potassium | 2455 mg | 52% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.