Irresistible Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs Recipe Delight

The moment you take a whiff of a Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs, you know you’re in for something special. Imagine perfectly al dente pasta entwined with tender tuna, kissed by fresh herbs and a zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just food it’s a burst of sunshine in a bowl, perfect for picnics or lazy Sunday lunches.

Growing up, my mother made this salad at every family gathering. The laughter around the table and the satisfied smiles after each bite are memories I cherish. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or just a cozy evening at home, Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs has always brought people together over delicious food.

I remember one summer cookout when my friends tried to guess my secret ingredient they were stumped They loved it so much, we made it three times that week

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use any pasta shape you like I prefer fusilli for its ability to hold onto the dressing beautifully.
• Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for richer flavor drain well before using.
• Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and basil adds freshness chop them finely for an aromatic punch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved for sweetness they add color and juicy texture that complements the salad perfectly.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for crunch and zing soaking them in cold water first can mellow their sharpness.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best It brings richness and helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives brightness and balances the richness of the tuna and oil.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook your pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and adding salt before tossing in your pasta. Cook it according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will bring all the flavors together beautifully.

Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained pasta with tuna, chopped herbs, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, and drizzle the dressing over top.

Toss gently: Using two spoons or forks, carefully toss everything together until evenly coated. Be mindful not to break up the tuna too much we want nice chunks

Chill before serving: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows flavors to meld harmoniously.

Serve it up: Once chilled, give it one last gentle toss before plating. Garnish with extra herbs if desired for an added pop of color

Enjoy your homemade Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs It’s ready to impress at any gathering or simply satisfy your cravings on a quiet night at home

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta until al dente. While it’s boiling, chop your herbs and veggies so everything is fresh and ready.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to substitute canned tuna with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for unique flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store the tuna pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No need to reheat enjoy it cold

Sometimes I think back to when I first made this dish at a family picnic, and everyone raved about it. It felt great knowing I had created something so loved.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best?

Use short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne for better texture and flavor absorption.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely It tastes even better after chilling overnight in the fridge.

Is there a vegetarian option for tuna pasta salad?

Yes Replace tuna with chickpeas or white beans for a hearty vegetarian alternative.

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Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 4

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Description

Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines al dente pasta, tender tuna, and fresh herbs in a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics or casual dinners, this salad captures the essence of summer in every bite. Quick to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a main course or side dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as a simple weeknight meal, this Tuna Pasta Salad is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups uncooked fusilli pasta
• 1 can (5 oz) high-quality tuna in olive oil, drained
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, tuna, herbs, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle the dressing over the top.
4. Gently toss the ingredients until evenly coated without breaking up the tuna too much.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 30mg