This summertime tuna pasta salad is a perfect addition to your outdoor gatherings and picnics. It combines al dente pasta with fresh vegetables, tangy tuna, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing and satisfying dish. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a light and delicious salad that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for hot summer days when you want a flavorful meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of fusilli or any small pasta shape
- 2 cans of tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, parsley, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
The combination of pasta and tuna provides a balanced meal with carbohydrates for energy and protein for muscle repair.
This salad can be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery, based on personal preferences.