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Italian tuna salad with potatoes, tomatoes, capers, red onions, and fresh basil.

Italian Tuna Salad

A fresh and vibrant Italian tuna salad, perfect for lunch or dinner, combining flavorful potatoes, olives, and a tangy dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 414
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds potatoes Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or new potatoes for creaminess
  • 1 pound cherry tomatoes halved Fresh and juicy cherry tomatoes enhance the flavor
  • ½ cup olives pitted Taggiasche Kalamata or Castelvetrano are recommended
  • 2 tablespoons capers rinsed Optional for a briny kick
  • 1 red onion thinly sliced For a sharp mild onion flavor
  • 1 can 5-7 oz tuna in olive oil (Use high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for the best taste)
For the Dressing:
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Cold-pressed for rich flavor
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar For tanginess
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice For brightness
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Optional adds fresh citrus flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano For an herby Italian touch
  • 1 handful fresh basil leaves Optional for extra freshness
  • ½ teaspoon salt To taste
  • Black pepper To taste

Method
 

  1. Place whole, unpeeled potatoes in a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and allow to cool slightly. Peel if desired.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion slices, capers (if using), and fresh basil to the bowl. Toss gently to combine and let sit while the potatoes cool.
  4. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized chunks and add them to the bowl. Flake in the tuna, leaving some of its olive oil for added flavor. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Let the salad rest in the fridge for 30–60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 servingCalories: 414kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 20gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 898mgPotassium: 1131mgFiber: 6gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 704IUVitamin C: 64mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This flavorful salad can be customized with different vegetables or proteins. The olive oil dressing enhances the taste of each ingredient, making it a satisfying and easy dish for any occasion.

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