Classic Tuna Niçoise Salad Recipe

Tuna Niçoise Salad is the epitome of a fresh, vibrant meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This salad is not just a dish; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, bringing together the richness of tuna, crisp vegetables, and savory olives in a delightful combination. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly cooked green beans, tender potatoes, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all beautifully arranged on a bed of crisp lettuce. The star of the show, tuna, adds a satisfying protein boost, making this salad both filling and nutritious. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a crusty baguette for a complete meal.

The Ultimate Tuna Niçoise Salad Experience

Tuna Niçoise Salad stands out as a vibrant dish that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean flavors. This salad showcases a wonderful medley of textures and tastes, uniting fresh vegetables, protein-rich tuna, and savory olives into a delightful creation. Each ingredient plays a role, from the crisp greens to the tender green beans, making it an ideal option for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients That Shine

The components of Tuna Niçoise Salad are crucial to its charm. Each item contributes to the overall experience, beginning with mixed salad greens that provide a crisp foundation. Juicy cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the earthy potatoes and briny olives create a balanced flavor profile that is both satisfying and nourishing.

High-quality tuna is the star, offering a rich source of protein. The hard-boiled eggs introduce creaminess, enhancing the salad’s appeal while contributing additional nutrients. Together, these ingredients create a medley that is visually stunning and palate-pleasing.

A Symphony of Flavors

In Tuna Niçoise Salad, the combination of flavors is nothing short of delightful. The brininess of olives contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, while the tender green beans add a crisp bite. This dish is a celebration of taste, where each element comes together to form a cohesive and enjoyable meal.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing Tuna Niçoise Salad is straightforward and quick. Start by boiling the potatoes until tender, then blanch the green beans to keep them vibrant and crisp. Making the dressing requires just a few ingredients whisked together, ensuring a light and zesty coating for the salad components.

Assembly is key; layer the greens, followed by the potatoes, green beans, cherry tomatoes, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, and olives. A light drizzle of dressing ties everything together, ready to be enjoyed. This salad can be served immediately or allowed to chill briefly to enhance the flavors further.

Serving Suggestions

Tuna Niçoise Salad is versatile enough to serve as a stand-alone meal or pair it with a slice of crusty baguette for a more filling option. The rustic presentation on a wooden table adds to the inviting nature of this dish. It’s perfect for lunch gatherings or a light dinner, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Health Benefits

This salad not only pleases the palate but also packs a nutritional punch. With generous portions of vegetables, high-quality tuna, and healthy fats from olive oil, Tuna Niçoise Salad offers essential vitamins and minerals. Each serving provides a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a wholesome meal option.

Enjoying a serving of this salad is a great way to embrace fresh ingredients while indulging in Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of tuna in olive oil, drained
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (like arugula and romaine)
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 2 medium potatoes, boiled and cubed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
• 1/2 cup black olives, preferably Niçoise or Kalamata
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Boil the potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain and let cool. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Assemble the Salad: On a large platter or individual plates, arrange the salad greens as a base. Top with the cubed potatoes, green beans, cherry tomatoes, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, and olives.
4. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the assembled salad and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
5. Serve: Enjoy your Tuna Niçoise Salad immediately, or chill for a bit to enhance the flavors.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g