Tuna Pasta Salad: A Refreshing and Nutritious Meal
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- Serving: 5
- Prep time: 15 m
- Cook time: 10 m
- Ready in: 25 m
Tuna Pasta Salad combines the heartiness of pasta with the lightness of tuna, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing meal on a warm day, this salad is versatile and can be tailored to your taste preferences. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, and the best part is, it’s incredibly easy to make!
Ingredients
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Total Nutritional Values
Calories
948
948
Total Protein
36g
36g
Total Fat
50g
50g
Total Carbohydrates
94g
94g
Instructions
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Instructions
1-Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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2-Prepare the Tuna: In a mixing bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork.
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3-Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, flaked tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and capers.
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4-Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
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5-Add Fresh Herbs and Cheese: Stir in the chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
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6-Chill: For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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7-Serve: Enjoy your refreshing tuna pasta salad as a standalone meal or as a side dish.
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Conclusion
Tuna Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to enjoy a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates all in one bowl. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a picnic dish, or a light dinner option, this salad is sure to please.
Smart Tips
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Pasta Choice: Choose pasta shapes that hold onto the dressing and other ingredients well, like fusilli, penne, or shells.
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Quality of Tuna: Opt for high-quality canned tuna in water or olive oil for the best flavor.
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Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, steamed broccoli, or artichoke hearts.
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Make it Creamy: For a creamy version, mix in a little mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the olive oil and lemon juice.
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Boosting Flavors: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, or a dash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.
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Fresh Herbs: Apart from parsley, consider adding fresh basil, dill, or mint for a different flavor profile.
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Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for meal prep or as a time-saver for events.
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Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
