tuna pasta salad

Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

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Tuna pasta salad is the ultimate go-to dish for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a potluck favorite. Combining tender pasta, flaked tuna, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this versatile recipe is easy to customize and always satisfying. Perfect for meal prep or a last-minute meal, this salad is as flavorful as it is simple to make.

Ingredients

For 4-6 servings:

  • 250g (8 oz) pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
  • 2 cans (150g/5 oz each) tuna in olive oil or water, drained
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice or white wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Tuna

  1. While the pasta cools, chop the vegetables and parsley.
  2. Flake the tuna into bite-sized pieces using a fork.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey or sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tuna, onion, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, corn (if using), and parsley.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  2. Serve chilled, garnished with Parmesan cheese or extra parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Pasta Choice: Use short pasta shapes that hold dressing well, like fusilli or rotini.
  • Extra Add-Ins: Add diced bell peppers, capers, or boiled eggs for additional flavor and texture.
  • Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

This Tuna Pasta Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious blend of textures and tastes in every bite!

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