You know, sometimes life just calls for something quick, healthy, and utterly satisfying—like this tuna pasta salad. Picture it: tender pasta spirals mingling with juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp veggies, and that delightful tuna, all tossed in a zesty dressing that’ll make your taste buds dance. It’s a dish that somehow manages to be both comforting and refreshing, much like that unexpected cool breeze on a hot summer day.
Steps
- Cook the pasta following the package directions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and let it cool slightly.
- As the pasta cooks, chop the celery and onion. Drain the tuna and either warm the peas or add them to the pasta water during the last minute of cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until the mixture is smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, place the cooked pasta, drained tuna, chopped celery, onion, and peas. Pour half of the sauce over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Season the pasta salad with salt, pepper, and dried dill according to your taste. Refrigerate the pasta and remaining sauce separately for 30 minutes.
- Before serving, stir in the remaining sauce to ensure the salad is creamy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces mini shell pasta (or other bite-size pasta)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Dried dill, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 84g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 550mg | Potassium: 628mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 660IU | Vitamin C: 25.4mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 3.2mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for Tuna Pasta Salad?
- Absolutely! While the recipe suggests mini shell noodles, you can use any bite-sized pasta you prefer.
- What makes Greek yogurt a good choice for the sauce?
- Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and is high in protein, making it a healthier alternative to using only mayonnaise for the dressing.
- Can I prepare Tuna Pasta Salad in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the noodles from absorbing too much and losing their creaminess.
- Is there a nutritional benefit to using tuna in this salad?
- Certainly! Tuna is an excellent source of protein and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
- How should I store leftover Tuna Pasta Salad?
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, keeping the dressing separate if possible, to maintain the salad’s creamy consistency when you serve it again.
Tips
- For added creaminess, reserve a portion of the dressing and mix it into the salad just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the sauce.
- Enhance the flavor by seasoning the salad with salt, pepper, and dried dill to taste, ensuring that the flavors are well-balanced.
- If you’re preparing the salad in advance, store the pasta and dressing separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve to maintain the optimal texture.
- Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option, adding extra fiber and nutrients to the dish.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Colander or pasta strainer
