Why make this recipe
Tuna Pasta Salad is a great dish for any occasion. It’s simple to make, packed with protein, and can be served cold or at room temperature. This makes it perfect for picnics, potlucks, and quick lunches. With its vibrant flavors and easy prep, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
How to make Tuna Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- Shell noodles
- Canned tuna
- Peas
- Greek yogurt
- Salt
- Pepper
- Lemon juice
Directions:
- Cook the shell noodles according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooled noodles with canned tuna, peas, and Greek yogurt.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Stir until well combined.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to serve Tuna Pasta Salad
Tuna Pasta Salad can be served in various ways. It can be plated as a main dish or a side salad. Pair it with some fresh bread or crackers for a complete meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also enhance its presentation and taste.
How to store Tuna Pasta Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. If the salad gets too dry, you can remix it with a little extra Greek yogurt or lemon juice before serving again.
Tips to make Tuna Pasta Salad
- Make sure to let the shell noodles cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to prevent sogginess.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as you mix; everyone’s preference for salt and acidity can vary.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
Variation
You can customize this Tuna Pasta Salad by adding different ingredients. Try incorporating diced celery for crunch or cherry tomatoes for sweetness. You could also use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt if you prefer a creamier texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and then flake it into the salad.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shell noodles with gluten-free pasta.
How can I make this recipe more filling?
To make it more filling, consider adding some cooked beans or a handful of chopped avocado. For another protein boost, grilled chicken can also be a delicious addition.
For other tasty pasta options, you may want to check out this Chicken Spinach Alfredo Rotini Pasta recipe.
Print
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
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A simple and protein-packed Tuna Pasta Salad that’s perfect for picnics and quick lunches.
Ingredients
- 8 oz shell noodles
- 1 can canned tuna, drained
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the shell noodles according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooled noodles with canned tuna, peas, and Greek yogurt.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Stir until well combined.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For additional flavor, consider adding fresh herbs or incorporating extra vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
