Pasta Salad Niçoise

Pasta Salad Niçoise Recipe - French Cuisine

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pasta Salad Niçoise is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of Italy and France. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and bold flavors.

History

The Pasta Salad Niçoise is a modern twist on the classic Niçoise salad, which originated in the city of Nice, France. Traditionally, a Niçoise salad consists of tuna, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and anchovies, all served on a bed of lettuce. This pasta version adds a new dimension to the traditional dish, making it a perfect summer meal.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of fat-free italian dressing
0.25 cup of chopped fresh basil
2 cloves of minced fresh garlic
5 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
2 cups of cooked and drained rotini pasta
1 can (6 oz (170 g)) of drained water-packed tuna
0.75 cup of diced fresh tomato
0.5 cup of diced california avocado
0.25 cup of sliced red onion
4 leaves of green-leaf lettuce
2 large sliced black olives

How to prepare

In a small bowl, combine the dressing, basil, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine rotini pasta, tuna, tomato, avocado, and red onion.
Add the dressing and toss.
Line four plates with lettuce leaves, spoon the salad on top, and garnish with olive slices.

Variations

Substitute the tuna with grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
Add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use a different type of pasta, such as penne or bowtie, for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb the flavors of the dressing as it sits.

- For a more intense flavor, marinate the tuna in the dressing for a few hours before adding it to the salad.

- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or protein sources.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pasta Salad Niçoise as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a side dish at a barbecue or picnic. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

- Toss the pasta with the dressing while it is still warm, so it can absorb the flavors more effectively.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of vinaigrette dressing in place of the Italian dressing.

- Substitute fresh parsley or cilantro for the basil if desired.

- Replace the avocado with diced cucumber or bell pepper for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and pasta salad ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

- This salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance, but be sure to add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Pasta Salad Niçoise on a bed of lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. - Garnish the salad with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. - Arrange the salad on a platter and top with additional olives and cherry tomatoes for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Pasta Salad Niçoise with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve the salad with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Pasta Salad Niçoise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, simply microwave the salad for 1-2 minutes, or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 32g

Dietary Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 3g

Fats

Total Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

Vitamin C: 20%

Calcium: 4%

Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains fish (tuna)

Summary

This Pasta Salad Niçoise is a well-balanced meal, providing a good source of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Summary

Pasta Salad Niçoise is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and fresh ingredients, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Pasta Salad Niçoise. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Marie in the beautiful city of Nice, France. Marie was an incredible cook, and she had invited me over for a traditional French meal.

As I entered her charming little kitchen, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of garlic and herbs. Marie was bustling about, chopping vegetables and boiling water for the pasta. She smiled warmly at me and said, "Today, I will teach you how to make Pasta Salad Niçoise. It is a classic dish from this region, and it is perfect for a summer day."

I watched in awe as Marie expertly combined cooked pasta with fresh tomatoes, green beans, olives, and tuna. She then drizzled the salad with a zesty vinaigrette made with olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard. The colors and flavors of the dish were mesmerizing, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

As we sat down to eat, Marie shared the story of how she had learned to make Pasta Salad Niçoise from her own grandmother. She explained that the dish originated in the city of Nice and was traditionally served as a light and refreshing meal during the hot summer months. I listened intently as she described the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients and how the simple combination of flavors created a harmonious and satisfying dish.

After that day, I was determined to master the art of making Pasta Salad Niçoise. I asked Marie for her recipe, and she happily shared it with me. I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I had perfected my version of the dish.

Over the years, I have made Pasta Salad Niçoise countless times for family gatherings, picnics, and dinner parties. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that sunny day in Nice and the generosity of my friend Marie. I am grateful for the culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations, and I take pride in sharing this delicious and vibrant dish with my loved ones.

As I sit here now, writing down the recipe for Pasta Salad Niçoise, I can't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for all the knowledge and inspiration that has been imparted to me over the years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and through it, I have been able to connect with others, preserve traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

I hope that you will enjoy making and eating this Pasta Salad Niçoise as much as I have. May it bring you joy, nourishment, and a sense of connection to the rich culinary heritage that has shaped us all. Bon appétit!