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Tuna Pasta Salad

A chilled pasta salad combining flaky tuna, crisp vegetables, and a creamy lemon-Dijon dressing for a light yet satisfying meal ready in under 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 ounces pasta rotini, penne, or fusilli work best
  • 2 cans 5 ounces each solid white tuna, drained
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling water
  • Colander or pasta strainer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for whisking dressing
  • Whisk or fork
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Can opener

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with 4 to 5 quarts of water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Add the pasta to the boiling water, stir immediately, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente.
  3. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, rinse under cold running water to stop cooking, and spread on a towel to dry.
  4. While the pasta cools, dice the celery, red bell pepper, and red onion into small, uniform pieces.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
  6. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl, pour the dressing over it, and stir gently to coat.
  7. Drain and flake the tuna into bite-sized pieces, then add it along with the diced vegetables and cherry tomatoes to the pasta; fold gently.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make this salad up to a day ahead and stir before serving. Add a splash of lemon juice or extra mayonnaise if it seems dry after chilling.