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A bowl of tuna pasta salad with al dente pasta, tuna chunks, celery, red onion, creamy dressing, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on a rustic wooden table.

Tuna Pasta Salad

Enjoy a healthy, delicious Tuna Pasta Salad—a perfect balance of tender pasta, lean tuna, and crisp veggies tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Ideal for quick meals and easy customization!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Dinner, lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients :
  • 2 5 oz each cans of canned tuna (water-packed for a lighter option)
  • 8 oz of pasta such as fusilli or penne
  • 2 stalks of celery finely chopped
  • 1 small red onion diced
  • 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juicefreshly squeezed
  • 1/4 cup of parsley chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper freshly ground, to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
  • 2 tablespoons of capers
  • 1/4 cup of olives sliced
  • 1 medium avocado diced
  • 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard

Method
 

Step 1: Cook and Cool the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente.
  2. Drain, rinse with cool water, and let the pasta cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Mix-Ins
  1. Open and drain the canned tuna, then gently flake it with a fork.
  2. Finely chop the celery and dice the red onion.
  3. If using, prepare optional ingredients like avocado, olives, or capers.
Step 3: Create the Dressing
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with freshly squeezed lemon juice.
  2. Add salt, pepper, and optional Dijon mustard, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tuna, celery, and red onion.
  2. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently toss until evenly coated.
  3. Fold in any optional add-ins and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serving
  1. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. For enhanced flavor blending, chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving.