Looking for a super simple and satisfying meal that comes together in a flash? This Tuna Pasta Salad is your answer! It’s perfect for a speedy lunch, a light dinner, or even a potluck dish that everyone will love. Packed with flavor and goodness, it’s a go-to recipe when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Tuna Pasta Salad is a fantastic option for a quick meal because it relies on pantry staples and requires minimal cooking. It’s a refreshing change from heavier dishes and can be customized with your favorite veggies. Plus, it’s a great way to get a good dose of protein and healthy ingredients in one bowl.
Health Benefits
Tuna is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known for their benefits to heart and brain health. Adding plenty of vegetables to the salad boosts your intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting overall well-being and digestion. Using a lighter dressing or incorporating ingredients like Greek yogurt can also help manage calories and fat content.
Ingredients Needed
* 12 ounces small pasta shells or elbow macaroni
* 2 (5-ounce) cans tuna in water, drained and flaked
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried dill
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
Step By Step Making
1. Cook the pasta in well-salted water according to package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add the cooled pasta, drained tuna, thawed peas, chopped celery, and chopped red onion to the bowl with the dressing.
4. Gently fold all the ingredients together until everything is well coated. Be careful not to break up the tuna too much.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled. This dish is perfect as a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings.
Nutritional Value
A serving of this Tuna Pasta Salad typically contains approximately:
* Calories: 391
* Protein: 30 g
* Carbohydrates: 46 g
These values can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!