This Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and satisfying, making it a fantastic option for busy days when you need something quick and delicious. It’s packed with protein from the tuna, balanced with the sweetness of peas, and made extra flavorful with a simple mayo-mustard dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep!
This recipe can be easily customized by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. Try adding some chopped celery for crunch, or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked pasta (any shape)
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1 can of tuna in olive oil, drained
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1 cup frozen peas, thawed
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, drained tuna, and thawed peas.
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In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
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Add the dressing to the pasta mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Add chopped parsley and red onion, mixing gently to combine.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a simple, quick, and satisfying dish, then this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is perfect for you. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make a creamy, protein-packed meal that’s both flavorful and filling. This dish is ideal for lunch, a side at dinner, or even as a snack to satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, meaning you can make it your own by adding in different vegetables or proteins. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or prepping meals ahead of time, this tuna pasta salad will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Perfect for Busy Days
Life gets busy, and finding the time to prepare healthy, tasty meals can sometimes feel impossible. That’s where this tuna pasta salad shines. It’s a meal that takes just minutes to prepare but doesn’t compromise on flavor. All you need is cooked pasta, canned tuna, and a few pantry staples like mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Toss everything together, and you have a meal that’s ready to enjoy in no time.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or simply looking for something quick to make for lunch or dinner, this salad is ideal for anyone who needs to eat without the hassle of lengthy prep time. It’s the perfect meal for a busy individual or family who wants something nutritious, satisfying, and delicious on their table without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The Nutritional Benefits of Tuna Pasta Salad
This dish not only saves time but also provides a good mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. Tuna is packed with high-quality protein, making it a great source of lean protein. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. The mayonnaise in this recipe adds some richness and flavor, and you can choose a lighter version if you want to reduce calories or fat.
The pasta adds carbohydrates, giving you the energy to power through your day. In addition, the frozen peas offer a healthy dose of fiber and micronutrients, contributing to the overall nutritional profile of the salad. This meal is a good option for those who are looking to balance their macronutrients while keeping it light and flavorful. If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, you can always swap out the mayo for a Greek yogurt base or add in extra vegetables like tomatoes or cucumbers.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best things about this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is its meal prep potential. This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It holds up well, allowing the flavors to meld together, which means it’s even better the next day. You can prepare a large batch, portion it out for the week, and have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal on hand whenever hunger strikes.
This salad is also incredibly customizable, meaning you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or what your dietary preferences are. Want to add some extra crunch? Throw in some diced celery or bell peppers. Looking for more fiber? Add in some chopped carrots or corn. You can even swap out the pasta for a gluten-free version or use whole wheat pasta for added nutrients.
Great for Picnics and Gatherings
This tuna pasta salad is not only great for meal prep but also for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. It’s a dish that’s easy to transport, doesn’t require reheating, and stays fresh in the fridge for several hours. With its creamy dressing and satisfying ingredients, it’s the perfect side dish for BBQs, family reunions, or any casual get-together.
Because it can be served cold or at room temperature, it’s ideal for summer picnics or parties. You won’t have to worry about reheating it, and guests can enjoy it throughout the day without any fuss. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser with its simple yet delicious flavors that everyone will love.
How to Make This Recipe Your Own
One of the reasons this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is so beloved is because of its flexibility. It’s a great base that can be easily modified based on your tastes and preferences. Here are some simple ideas to make it your own:
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Vegetables: Want to add more color and nutrients? Feel free to add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives. For an extra crunch, add some chopped bell peppers or red onions.
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Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil can give your salad a burst of freshness. You can also use dried herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth.
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Proteins: While tuna is the star of this dish, you can easily switch it out for other proteins. Try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
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Dressings: While this recipe uses a classic mayo-mustard dressing, you can try different variations. A creamy ranch dressing, Greek yogurt, or a vinaigrette could provide a unique twist on the flavor.
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Spices: Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings! A dash of paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can add an interesting layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Tuna Pasta Salad can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or dinner, but it also pairs well with many different dishes. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside a green salad, a bowl of soup, or grilled vegetables. If you’re making it for a party, serve it with some crispy crackers or bread for added texture. It’s a wonderfully versatile dish that complements many different flavors.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The simplicity of this tuna pasta salad is what makes it such a hit. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again because it’s so easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s a great go-to dish when you need something healthy but don’t have the time to cook a complicated meal.
The balance between creamy mayo, tangy Dijon mustard, and the freshness of parsley and peas makes each bite a delightful experience. It’s the perfect combination of creamy and savory, with just the right amount of crunch. The tuna brings a delicious umami flavor, while the pasta provides that comforting, satisfying base that makes this dish so special.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad is more than just a simple dish. It’s a versatile, flavorful, and nutritious meal that works for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, preparing it as a meal prep option, or bringing it to a picnic, it’s sure to be a hit. With endless variations to suit your tastes, you can enjoy this dish again and again without getting bored. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time. So the next time you need a quick, satisfying, and healthy dish, remember this Easy Tuna Pasta Salad – it’s the perfect solution for any meal.