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Easy Tuna Pasta Salad

Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
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Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is a quick, flavorful, and fuss-free meal combining tender pasta, flaky tuna, and crisp vegetables in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or a refreshing lunch, this salad balances protein, carbs, and veggies with customizable flavors to suit your taste and pantry.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups rotini, fusilli, or penne pasta (short shapes)

Tuna

  • 1 can (5-6 oz) chunk light or albacore tuna, drained

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Herbs & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil your chosen pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Tuna and Vegetables: Drain canned tuna well and flake it gently with a fork. Chop bell peppers, celery, and red onion into bite-sized pieces for even texture and flavor.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Combine Everything: In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, and chopped vegetables. Pour the dressing over and stir carefully to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy.

Notes

  • Choose smaller pasta shapes like rotini or penne for better dressing coverage.
  • Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid a soggy salad.
  • Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor melding.
  • Add fresh herbs last to keep their vibrant color and brightness.
  • Adjust the dressing consistency with a splash of water or lemon juice if too thick.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna pasta salad, quick lunch, easy tuna recipe, pasta salad, meal prep salad, healthy lunch

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/easy-tuna-pasta-salad/