Saturday, May 3, 2014

Salad of Tuna and Cannellini Beans

by Peg Cochran

We had one (1) day so far this spring where it was on the warm side (meaning we didn't need to wear gloves and a scarf.)  Yes, that's one day!  I took advantage of it to make this salad which has been a favorite for years and years.  It comes from the 60 Minute Gourmet Cookbook by Craig Claiborne--a compilation of recipes that appeared in a column of the same name in the NY Times.  It's super easy to put together and makes a nice light dinner or a luncheon dish fit for company.  

1 20-ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup chopped scallions, onions (or red onions which I've substituted at times)
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or as much as appeals to you!)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Splash of lemon juice (optional--something I've added to the recipe)

1/4 olive oil

salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 7-ounce cans tuna packed in olive oil (best if it's Italian tuna, but   if you're watching your weight, tuna packed in water works just fine!)

Put the beans, scallions or onions, garlic and parsley in a bowl.  Whisk together the vinegar, olive oil and lemon juice if using.  Flake tuna and add to bean mixture.  Pour on dressing and toss well.  Serve on a bed of lettuce leaves.  If you're making it with tuna packed in water, you might want to increase the quantity of dressing.


Mix all your ingredients - my metal bowl is creating a surrealistic effect in this picture!



Mix your dressing



Serve on a bed of lettuce


Bon Appetit!


Have you met Lucille Mazzarella yet?  Check out the two books in my Lucille Series from Beyond the Page Publishing.    Lucille is a middle-aged "Jersey" housewife and Italian mama who believes every problem can be solved over a Sunday dinner of pasta, wine and cannolis!  Except for those dead bodies she keeps tripping over...







You might also enjoy my Gourmet De-Lite Series.  Is it a coincidence that they all revolve around food in some way or another??!!







3 comments:

  1. Peg - Bean salad is a great dish for a healthy diet--and so easy to throw together. Thanks for sharing, and we're crossing fingers spring stays sprung. It's been a long, cold winter! Have a delicious weekend...

    ~ Cleo

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  2. The reflection in the bowl is great! Very artistic.
    Here's to lots more spring.
    We are already into highs in the 80's. Toto, I don't think it's winter any more.

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  3. I'm adding this recipe to my pinterest right now. It looks like it will be delicious. And I love your Lucille Series. It is very good. I'll make sure to check out your Gourmet De-lite series. I know it will be right up my alley.

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