Tangy Twist: Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe for Summer Joy

Summers call for refreshing meals that pack a punch of flavor, and this creamy tuna pasta salad recipe delivers exactly what you need.

Cool, tangy, and satisfying, the dish comes together in minutes with simple ingredients.

Fresh herbs and crisp vegetables add delightful texture to the creamy base.

pasta spirals catch every bit of the luscious dressing, ensuring maximum taste in each bite.

The tuna provides a protein-rich foundation that makes this salad both nutritious and delicious.

Quick to prepare and even faster to devour, this recipe promises to become a go-to meal for busy weeknights and lazy weekend lunches.

Dive into a bowl of pure comfort that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

• Is whole wheat penne better than regular pasta?

Whole wheat penne offers more fiber, nutrients, and a slightly nutty flavor compared to regular pasta, making it a healthier choice for this tuna pasta salad.

• Can I use a different type of fish instead of tuna?

Yes, you can substitute tuna with canned salmon, shredded chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version of the pasta salad.

• How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Add extra protein by including hard-boiled eggs, grilled chicken, or increasing the amount of tuna in the salad.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This tuna pasta salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Full Of Flavor

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Ingredients For Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

• Whole Wheat Penne: A hearty whole grain pasta that provides a nutritious base for the salad.
• Tuna: A protein-rich seafood that adds substance and flavor to the pasta salad.
• Avocado: A creamy ingredient that helps create a smooth and rich dressing.

• Greek Yogurt, Lemon Juice, Dijon Mustard: These ingredients combine to create a tangy and creamy dressing base.
• Dill, Garlic, Chili Flakes: Herbs and spices that add depth and a subtle kick to the dressing.
• Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

• Celery, Green Peas, Red Onion: Fresh vegetables that provide crunch, sweetness, and additional nutrition to the pasta salad.

Instructions For Making Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Cook whole wheat penne in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. The pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite.

Step 2: Chill and Prepare Pasta Base

Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water. Transfer to a spacious mixing bowl and let it cool completely to room temperature.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Avocado Dressing

• Ripe avocado
• Tangy Greek yogurt
• Fresh dill
• Zesty lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Minced garlic
• Pinch of chili flakes

Blend until silky smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 4: Create the Flavor Fusion

• Crisp celery
• Sweet green peas
• Flaky canned tuna
• Diced red onion

Gently fold everything together, ensuring each pasta piece gets a perfect coating of creamy goodness.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Divide the pasta salad into serving bowls. Sprinkle additional fresh dill on top for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor.

Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a quick and delicious meal later. The salad stays fresh for up to two days when stored in an airtight container.

Expert Tips For Tuna Pasta Salad Perfection

• Rinse pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking, ensuring a perfect al dente texture.
• Blend avocado and Greek yogurt thoroughly to create a smooth, rich sauce that coats pasta evenly without lumps.
• Let the salad sit for 15-30 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to marinate and develop more intense flavors.
• Store in an airtight container with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent discoloration and maintain freshness.
• Swap tuna with grilled chicken or chickpeas for alternative protein options suitable for different dietary preferences.

Flavor Twists To Customize Tuna Pasta Salad

• Mediterranean Tuna Quinoa Salad: Replace whole wheat penne with quinoa, swap Greek yogurt for tzatziki, add kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.
• Protein-Packed Tuna Zucchini Noodles: Use spiralized zucchini instead of pasta, add edamame for extra protein, keep creamy avocado dressing.
• Vegan Chickpea Alternative: Substitute tuna with chickpeas, use vegan yogurt, keep similar herbs and spices for a plant-based protein option.
• Spicy Southwest Tuna Salad: Add roasted corn, black beans, swap dill for cilantro, include jalapeños and cumin in the dressing for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions For Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad

• Crisp White Wine Pairing: Choose a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the creamy avocado dressing and cut through the richness of tuna.
• Fresh Green Salad Side: Serve a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to enhance the bright, tangy flavors of the pasta dish and add extra freshness.
• Crusty Artisan Bread Companion: Add a slice of rustic sourdough or whole grain bread to soak up the creamy dressing and provide a delightful textural contrast.
• Sparkling Citrus Spritzer: Prepare a homemade lemonade or sparkling water with fresh citrus to mirror the lemon notes in the pasta and cleanse the palate between bites.

Proper Storage Advice For Tuna Pasta Salad

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Keep the pasta salad cold to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Not recommended due to creamy avocado dressing and yogurt base, which can separate and lose texture when thawed.
• Gently stir the cold pasta salad to redistribute dressing. Let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften and enhance flavors.
• Add a splash of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before serving to revive the dressing and brighten the overall taste.

Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.9 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean-inspired Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad brings ocean freshness to your summer table. Crisp vegetables, tender pasta, and rich tuna create a delightful harmony perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein and Starch:

• 6.7 ounces (190 grams) tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
• 8 ounces (227 grams) whole wheat penne (or gluten-free)

Vegetables and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Dressing Ingredients:

• 1 very ripe avocado
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (or to taste)
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil whole wheat penne in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, following package instructions.
2. Drain pasta and immediately rinse with cold water to halt cooking process, then transfer to a spacious mixing bowl to cool completely.
3. Create a vibrant creamy dressing by combining ripe avocado, tangy Greek yogurt, fresh dill, zesty lemon juice, sharp Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a hint of chili flakes in a blender.
4. Pulse the mixture until silky smooth, then season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
5. Drizzle the luscious dressing over cooled pasta, ensuring even coverage.
6. Incorporate crisp celery, sweet green peas, flaky tuna, and pungent red onion into the pasta.
7. Gently fold all ingredients together, allowing the dressing to coat each component uniformly.
8. Serve immediately in individual portions, garnishing with additional fresh dill for an aromatic touch.
9. Refrigerate any leftover salad, which will remain fresh for up to 48 hours.

Notes

• Customize the pasta by swapping whole wheat penne with gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or chickpea pasta for those with dietary restrictions.
• Enhance protein content by adding extra canned tuna or plant-based protein like chickpeas for vegetarian modifications.
• Use low-fat Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt to reduce calories and accommodate lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Boost nutritional value by incorporating additional vegetables such as diced cucumber, roasted bell peppers, or baby spinach for extra crunch and vitamins.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 7 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg