Crunchy Asparagus Tuna Salad

Egg quantity reduced slightly for less waste or adjusting serving size. Asparagus trimmed to slightly larger chunks to hold texture better. Cannellini beans replace smaller white beans—creamier, richer, better body in salad. Cherry tomatoes fresh and bursting with flavor, halve to release juices mixing into dressing. Olive oil split between salad and toasting crumbs—don’t skimp on that fat layer; it’s where the crunch magic lies. Pecorino swap makes flavor more assertive; parmesan milder. Apple cider vinegar chosen for brightness and acidity balance but white balsamic remains acceptable. Gluten-free breadcrumbs for safety; panko fine but can use regular here, just watch for sogginess later. Garlic finely minced to avoid giant bits that scorch. Lemon zest added for twist—extra aroma and palate spark. Mint brings cool herbal contrast but optional depending on access or taste. Good pantry flexibility with canned tuna; fresh fish would change time and handling. Egg cooking time lifted a minute for slightly less runny yolk—many prefer that texture for salad. Asparagus timing slightly increased to ensure tender but still snap—power from stovetop heat varies, so rely on color and fork test.

Gentle simmer water key—avoid rapid boil which cracks eggs. Use slotted spoon for eggs prevent cracking or bumping bottom. Exact 6-minute boil for eggs achieves jammy yolks; adjust slightly if eggs large or altitude higher. Adding asparagus after eggs reduces too-soft texture; timing critical: 3 minutes enough for tender-crisp especially large sized stalks. Shock in ice water bath immediately to stop cooking and set bright green color — vital for salad plate appeal. Peel eggs under running water: soft-boiled shells less likely to pop off cleanly; helps remove fineshells. Cut eggs lengthwise for elegant plating, halves can shift off plate if unevenly cut. Gentle fold when mixing veggies prevents beans bursting; preserve shape and creaminess. Toast garlic breadcrumbs on medium fire to prevent burnt garlic bitterness; smell aroma intensely when right. Seasoning breadcrumbs crucial; bland crumbs fail textural role. Assemble with care; layering tuna atop prevents fish flavor watering salad. Lemon zest sprinkle adds aroma without overpowering. Mint leaves optional, add fresh green flavor. Serve promptly or crumbs sog—good timing keeps crunch alive. Swap notes included to cater to common ingredient access and dietary needs. Observe aromas, colors, slight firmness as readiness signals rather than relying on watch alone.