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Tuna Pasta Salad

This Tuna Pasta Salad is a creamy, protein-packed dish, perfect for busy families seeking a healthy and delicious meal that can be made in minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Protein
  • 8 oz 8 oz pasta Provides the base for this heart-healthy salad.
  • 1 can (12 oz) 1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained Protein-packed and flavorful.
Vegetables
  • 1 cup 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds freshness and juicy sweetness.
  • 1 cup 1 cup cucumber, diced Brings a crisp texture to the dish.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup red onion, diced Offers a sharp bite that enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup black olives, sliced Adds briny richness.
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup mayonnaise Gives creaminess without extra calories.
  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil Enriches flavor and adds healthy fats.
  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp lemon juice Brightens up the flavors.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
Garnish
  • 1 bunch Fresh parsley for garnish A pop of color and freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. While the pasta cooks, prepare your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion and parsley.
  4. Drain the canned tuna and set aside.
Cook/Assemble
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve
  1. Transfer the Tuna Pasta Salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.
  3. For the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chill the salad for enhanced flavor development. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.