This easy Tuna Pasta Salad is your go-to dish for a quick, protein-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a satisfying lunch, this recipe combines tender pasta, flavorful tuna, and fresh veggies in a creamy yet light dressing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- High Protein: Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, making this salad both healthy and filling.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or add-ins to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- A few essentials for a quick Tuna Pasta Salad include pasta, canned tuna, and a handful of veggies. The full list of ingredients is below in the recipe card.
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil your favorite pasta until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta, flaked tuna, chopped celery, diced bell peppers, and red onions.
- Mix Together: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Pasta Choice: Opt for short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowties, as they hold the dressing well.
- Drain Tuna Well: Excess liquid can water down the salad, so be sure to drain the tuna thoroughly.
- Crunch Factor: Add chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Protein Boost: Add hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Veggie Swap: Use cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots instead of celery and bell peppers.
- Dressing Alternatives: Swap mayonnaise for an olive oil-based vinaigrette for a lighter version.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Tuna Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a crusty baguette, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold, but if you prefer, you can warm it slightly in the microwave.
FAQs
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.
Q: What type of tuna is best?
A: Use canned tuna in water for a lighter salad or tuna in oil for a richer flavor.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative or more mayonnaise.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from absorbing too much dressing?
A: Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking and toss it with a little olive oil before mixing it with the dressing.
Conclusion
This Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is a versatile and protein-packed dish that you can enjoy year-round. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a quick family meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Try it out today and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition!
Print
Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy tuna pasta salad is packed with protein, loaded with fresh veggies, and tossed in a creamy yet light dressing. Perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or as a side dish for gatherings. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 (5 oz) cans of tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or dill for variation)
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. - Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and garlic (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Adjust to taste. - Mix the Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, celery, carrots, and parsley. - Toss Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. - Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Notes
- Swap Greek yogurt for all mayonnaise if you prefer a richer dressing.
- Add a handful of shredded cheese or olives for extra flavor.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 25mg