Easy Tuna Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe

Craving for a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner? Look no further than this easy tuna pasta salad! Combining fresh vegetables, zesty mustard, and a zesty vinaigrette, this recipe transforms canned tuna into a refreshing dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So if you want to try a fresh twist on a classic, this tuna pasta salad is the perfect choice!

How to Make Tuna Pasta Salad? 

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• • 100 grams of short pasta (choose your preferred type like penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
  • 2 cans of tuna (drained, preferably in olive oil or water)
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced (you can use a garlic press for convenience)
  • ½ onion, sliced thinly into feathers
  • 7 cherry tomatoes, halved
  • A handful of fresh lettuce leaves, torn into pieces
  • 1 cucumber, sliced thinly
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard
  • 1 teaspoon of honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
  • 5 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions

1. Add water and a teaspoon of salt to a pot. Once the water reaches a boil, add the short pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente pasta). Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool for a few minutes.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cans of tuna, sliced onions, cucumber, lettuce, and cherry tomatoes. Be sure to break up the tuna with a fork, so it mixes well with the vegetables.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in the olive oil, stirring constantly until the dressing is well combined.

4. Once the pasta has cooled down, add it to the large bowl with the tuna and veggies. Pour the vinaigrette over the mixture and toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or honey if desired.

5. For an even more refreshing dish, chill the pasta salad for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. Enjoy this easy tuna pasta salad as a light lunch, a side dish, or a filling meal on its own!

Tuna Pasta Salad Tips and Variations

• Add boiled eggs for an extra protein boost, or toss in some chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the tuna for chickpeas or any plant-based protein of your choice.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill to elevate the flavor of the salad.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, mix a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream into the vinaigrette.

Health Benefits of This Easy Tuna Pasta Salad

• Rich in Protein: Tuna provides a good source of lean protein, which helps in muscle repair and immune function.
• Packed with Fiber: The addition of vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce boosts fiber intake, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which can contribute to better heart health.
• Antioxidants: The tomatoes and cucumbers provide essential vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.

Make Your Tuna Pasta Salad Today!

This easy tuna pasta salad is a winner for anyone looking for a healthy, easy-to-make meal. With fresh ingredients and simple instructions, you can whip up a dish that's as nutritious as it is satisfying. Also, the versatility of this recipe means you can adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

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Kitchen Tools You Need

• Garlic Press: Perfect for quickly mincing garlic and saving time.
• Mixing Bowls: Large enough to hold all your ingredients comfortably.
• Colander: For draining pasta and rinsing vegetables.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing the vinaigrette ingredients smoothly.

Visit Zulay Kitchen to shop for the best kitchen tools to help you create this recipe and more!

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes! You can use fresh tuna in this recipe. Just cook the tuna to your liking (grilled or seared), then flake it into pieces and mix with the other ingredients. Keep in mind that fresh tuna will have a different texture and flavor compared to canned tuna.

How can I make the pasta salad spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a small amount of chopped chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the vinaigrette. A dash of hot sauce can also give your salad the spice you crave!

How long can I store this pasta salad?

You can store this pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the salad is best eaten fresh, as the veggies may start to soften and lose their crispness over time.

Can I substitute the pasta with a gluten-free option?

Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free pasta variety you prefer, such as rice pasta or quinoa pasta, to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, you can substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to keep the dish low-carb while still enjoying the flavors.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this tuna pasta salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Try it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal!