Description
A delightful and easy-to-make Italian Tuna Pasta Salad that combines pasta with fresh vegetables and tuna, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., fusilli or penne)
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and chop the fresh vegetables – halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, chop the bell peppers and red onion, and slice the olives.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained tuna, and prepared vegetables. Flake the tuna into manageable pieces and mix well.
- Add the dressing: Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture, gently tossing to ensure even coating.
- Season to taste: Adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
For added texture, consider using whole grain pasta or adding cubed cheese such as mozzarella or feta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Tuna Pasta Salad, Italian Salad, Easy Pasta Salad, Quick Recipes, Picnic Recipes