Poach a fresh piece of tuna for this satisfying salad. Toss with penne, blanched broccoli, tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olives, walnuts, garlic and parsley. Dress with a pungent infusion of anchovy and olive oil, then serve immediately.
INGREDIENTS (for 6 servings):
- 1 head broccoli, separated into florets
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound fresh tuna steaks
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 4 medium tomatoes, quartered
- 1 pound mozzarella cheese, diced
- 8 large black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup walnut pieces, toasted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 4 anchovy fillets, rinsed
- 3/4 cup olive oil
PREPARATION:
Put a large pot of salted water on to boil; use this water to blanch the broccoli and cook the pasta. Blanch broccoli in boiling water. When it is al dente, transfer broccoli to a bowl of ice water. Drain thoroughly.
Cook penne in salted, boiling water until al dente. Drain. Rinse under cold running water until completely cooled, and then drain completely.
Meanwhile, place tuna in a skillet with water, white wine, and lemon juice. Cover, and cook until done. Break fish into chunks.
Combine broccoli, penne, fish, tomatoes, cheese, olives, walnuts, garlic, and parsley in a large serving bowl.
Heat olive oil in small pan over low heat. Cut anchovy fillets into small pieces, add to the olive oil, and mash with a fork until they dissolve. Do not let oil get too hot. Pour oil-anchovy mixture over salad. Toss, and serve immediately.