Delight in a burst of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients with this refreshing High-Fibre Penne Pasta Salad. This recipe masterfully combines the nutty aroma of basil pesto, the zesty tang of lemon, and the rich indulgence of tuna in oil. With an array of fresh vegetables and Mediterranean accents, this pasta salad offers a symphony of tastes that will invigorate your palate and satisfy your appetite. As an epitome of culinary balance and convenience, this dish is a celebration of both healthful nourishment and exquisite taste.
INGREDIENTS:
- 375g packet of high-fiber penne pasta
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 425g can tuna-in-oil, drained and flaked
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 2 Lebanese cucumbers, halved lengthways and sliced
- 250g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved lengthways
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
PREPARATIONS:
- Cook the penne pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water following packet directions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and allow to dry in a colander. Transfer to a large bowl.
- In a screw-top jar, combine the basil pesto and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Shake vigorously to blend.
- Add the flaked tuna, finely sliced red onion, sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and halved Kalamata olives to the bowl of pasta.
- Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper.
- Drizzle the pesto mixture over the pasta and ingredients.
- Gently toss the ingredients to ensure an even distribution of flavors and dressing.
- Scatter the fresh basil leaves over the salad to add a burst of aromatic freshness.
YIELD:
- Serves 4-6
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- The pesto and lemon dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- For enhanced flavor, allow the salad to sit for a short while before serving to allow the ingredients to meld.
TIPS & HINTS:
- To optimize the nutritional benefits, we recommend using Vetta High-Fibre Penne in this recipe.
The High-Fibre Penne Pasta Salad stands as a testament to the art of crafting a nutritious and delectable dish that appeals to both the senses and the well-being. With its wholesome combination of whole-grain pasta, colorful vegetables, protein-rich tuna, and the alluring richness of basil pesto, this salad is a true culinary masterpiece. It’s light and invigorating essence make it a delightful choice for a nourishing lunch or a satisfying dinner. As you savor each forkful of this harmonious medley, you’ll appreciate how the combination of flavors and textures dances on your palate. Beyond its culinary excellence, this salad embodies the notion that food can be both healthful and irresistibly delicious, inviting us to embrace a lifestyle where wellness and gastronomy unite seamlessly.
