his is the perfect hot-weather dish, great on its own as a light lunch or as part of a summer buffet. It's the perfect accompaniment for soups, pastas with tomato sauce, and any dish using basil pesto. Italian tuna (tonno) is packed in olive oil which gives it a great flavor. It's available in Italian gourmet shops in the United States and Europe. I love the Callipo and Ai do Mari brands.
12 ounces white navy beans, cooked
(see recipe for Fagioli all'Olio)
7 ounce can tuna packed in oil, undrained
1 medium red onion finely sliced
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Parsley, chopped
Lemon juice
Drain the beans from their cooking water. (If you use canned beans, rinse well before using.) Place beans in a salad bowl and add the tuna broken up into tiny bits with a fork. (If you're forced to use American tuna, first drain the liquid.) Add the chopped parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss well.
Serve with finely sliced red onions on top. (If your red onions are strong, soak them for 10 minutes in cold water before using.) Serve chilled.
You can substitute shrimp or grilled fresh tuna. For an elegant party, serve caviar or smoked salmon bits on the beans. For yet another twist, try smoked herring. In Italian wine bars, the herring is often served on the side with the beans.
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