Catch the tantalizing aroma of fresh herbs dancing in the air as you prepare this delightful Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs. The combination of tender pasta, zesty tuna, and vibrant greens creates a dish that not only sings summer but also echoes memories of picnics in the sun.
Picture this: a backyard barbecue where laughter fills the air and everyone’s vying for the last scoop of this delicious salad. It’s the perfect companion for sunny days or potluck gatherings where you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Get ready to elevate your meal game!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This refreshing Tuna Pasta Salad is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers
- You can customize the ingredients based on your pantry staples or personal taste preferences
- Its colorful presentation will wow your guests at any gathering
- Perfectly versatile and deliciously satisfying, it’s a meal you can enjoy all season long!
My friends couldn’t stop raving about this Tuna Pasta Salad during our last picnic—it was gone before I could even grab seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use rotini or penne for great texture; choose whole grain for added health benefits.
- Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality chunk light tuna packed in water for optimal flavor and moisture.
- Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and basil adds freshness; don’t skip these for the best taste.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy tomatoes bring vibrant color; slice them in half to enhance their flavor.
- Cucumber: Choose firm cucumbers for crunch; peel if desired for a milder taste.
- Red Onion: Finely chop red onion to add a punch; soak in cold water first to mellow its bite.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness; it ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors; it’s like sunshine in your bowl!
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning elevates every ingredient; adjust to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables: While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs into bite-sized pieces. Keep everything ready so you can mix effortlessly.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with tuna (drained), chopped vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is well coated.
Toss in Fresh Herbs: Add parsley and basil just before serving; folding them in preserves their fresh flavors while adding visual appeal.
Taste & Adjust: Give your salad a taste test; add more salt or lemon juice as needed to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
Enjoy your delightful creation with friends or family—this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is sure to be a hit!
You Must Know
- Tuna pasta salad with herbs is a refreshing and easy dish
- The combination of flavors and textures makes it an instant favorite
- Perfect for picnics or quick lunches, this salad is versatile enough to suit any palate
- Enjoy it cold for a delightful treat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your pasta al dente, then mix in the tuna and herbs while it’s warm. This step ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out tuna for chickpeas or add extra veggies like bell peppers for crunch. Get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; serve chilled!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always rinse pasta under cold water after cooking to stop it from cooking further
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor, and don’t forget to season your dressing well for maximum impact
Sharing this recipe with friends at a picnic was such a joy! Everyone loved how refreshing and vibrant it tasted, making it a new summer staple.
FAQ
Can I use canned tuna in oil or water?
Both work well; just drain excess liquid before mixing.
How long does tuna pasta salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to three days when stored properly.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the dressing?
Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that adds creaminess without guilt.
Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines tender pasta, zesty tuna, and a medley of fresh herbs. Perfect for potlucks or quick weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
- Rotini or penne pasta
- Canned chunk light tuna
- Fresh parsley and basil
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta: Bring salted water to a boil, cook pasta until al dente (8-10 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water.
- 2. Prepare the vegetables: Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs into bite-sized pieces.
- 3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, drained tuna, chopped vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until well coated.
- 4. Toss in fresh herbs: Add parsley and basil just before serving to maintain their flavor.
- 5. Taste and adjust: Sample your salad and add more salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg