Italian Tuna White Bean Salad
This Italian Tuna White Bean Salad is a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines fresh tuna, creamy cannellini beans, and vibrant herbs. Topped with a savory brine made with rosemary and shallots, this salad is a perfect light lunch or dinner. Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a flavorful, refreshing meal that’s ideal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for searing tuna)
- Total Time: 20-30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Salad, Main Course, Mediterranean
- Method: Seared
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Salad:
2 cans cannellini beans
1 pound fresh tuna steaks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, cut into ribbons
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 shallot, thinly sliced
2 cups arugula
For the Brine:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 sprigs rosemary
1 tablespoon shallot
1 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions
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Prepare the brine: In a small saucepan, combine extra virgin olive oil, rosemary sprigs, shallot, and kosher salt. Heat over low heat for 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat and let it cool.
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Prepare the tuna steaks: Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the tuna steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side, forming a golden crust while keeping the inside slightly pink. Remove and let rest.
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Prepare the beans and vegetables: Drain and rinse the cannellini beans. In a large bowl, combine the beans, minced garlic, shallot slices, parsley, basil ribbons, and arugula.
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Toss the salad: Drizzle the cooled brine mixture over the bean and vegetable mix, stirring gently to combine.
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Assemble the salad: Flake the tuna steaks into large chunks and fold them into the salad. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and add more black pepper to taste.
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Serve: Serve immediately or chill for 15-30 minutes for enhanced flavors.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
This salad can be served as a main course or a side dish.
If you prefer more vegetables, try adding cherry tomatoes or cucumbers for extra crunch.
Make the brine in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Find it online: https://familydinnercooking.com/italian-tuna-white-bean-salad/
