Pasta Salad with Tuna

Pasta Salad with Tuna

Description

This Pasta Salad with Tuna is a light, protein-packed, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or potlucks. It combines al dente pasta with flaked tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy creamy dressing. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a favorite for any season.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Salad:

3 cups cooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne work best)

1 (5-oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked

1/2 cup chopped celery

1/2 cup diced red onion

1/2 cup chopped cucumber (optional)

1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color

1/4 cup chopped dill pickles or relish (optional)

1/2 cup cooked peas or corn (optional)

For the Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise (light or regular)

2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: 1 tsp dried dill or parsley

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta:

Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Let cool completely.

2. Prepare Dressing:

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3.Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, tuna, chopped veggies, and peas/corn if using

4. Add Dressing:

Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently until well combined. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor

5. Serve:

Garnish with extra herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve cold.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx. for 6 servings)

Calories: 320

Protein: 18g

Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 2.5g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 3g

Sodium: 480mg

Note: Values may vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices.

Time Required

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)

Total Time: 20–40 minutes

FAQs (Q&A Section)

Q: Can I use a different protein instead of tuna?

A: Yes! Try canned salmon, grilled chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

Q: What type of pasta is best?

A: Rotini or fusilli hold the dressing well, but any short pasta like penne or elbows works fine.

Q: How long does this last in the fridge?

A: It stays good for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?

A: Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt or just replace yogurt with more mayo or a dairy-free version.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?

A: Absolutely. It actually tastes better after chilling a few hours as the flavors meld.

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