Delicious Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs for Perfect Picnics

Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is like a culinary hug on a sunny afternoon. Picture this: tender pasta twirling around creamy tuna, mingling with vibrant herbs, and bringing an explosion of flavors that dance across your taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in delightful harmony, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even solo lunches when you need a little self-love.

This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of lazy summer days spent with friends in the park. We’d lay out our colorful blankets, chatting and laughing while diving into heaping bowls of this delicious Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs. The aroma would waft through the air, making everyone wonder what magical concoction we had whipped up. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be transported to your own sunny day picnic!

I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; everyone devoured it and begged for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta: I prefer using fusilli or rotini since they hold the dressing beautifully.

• Canned Tuna: Opt for solid white tuna packed in water or olive oil for rich flavor.

• Fresh Herbs: Use a mix of parsley and dill for freshness; they elevate the entire dish.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness and color to the salad.

• Red Onion: Finely diced red onion gives a mild sharpness that balances the flavors.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy mayo binds everything together; feel free to use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and cuts through richness.

• Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; they enhance all the flavors beautifully.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and let it cool slightly.

Prepare the Tuna: While the pasta cools down, open your canned tuna. Drain any excess liquid thoroughly to keep the salad from getting soggy. Flake it gently with a fork for better texture.

Chop Fresh Ingredients: Dice your cherry tomatoes and finely chop the red onion and fresh herbs. This will add color, crunchiness, and freshness to your salad.

Create the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth to create a creamy dressing that coats every ingredient.

Toss Everything Together: Add cooked pasta, flaked tuna, chopped veggies, and herbs to the bowl with dressing. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated; avoid smashing that beautiful pasta.

Chill Before Serving: For best results, cover your salad with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Now you have created a stunning Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every flavorful bite as you savor this delightful dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then drain and cool while prepping your ingredients. This way, everything comes together seamlessly for a flavorful dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the tuna for chickpeas or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or olives. Personal touches make this salad truly yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; enjoy it cold or at room temperature!

Nothing beats hearing my friend say, “This is better than my mom’s!” It always warms my heart when my cooking brings joy to others.

FAQ

What types of pasta work best in Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs?

Any short pasta like fusilli or penne holds the dressing well and adds texture.

Can I make Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

What can I substitute for tuna in this recipe?

Chickpeas or shredded chicken are great alternatives if you prefer something different.

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Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Experience the joy of summer with this vibrant Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs. Bursting with flavor and made in just 30 minutes, this dish combines tender pasta, creamy tuna, and fresh herbs for a delightful meal perfect for picnics, potlucks, or solo lunches. Each bite is a celebration of taste that transports you to sun-soaked days with friends. Easy to customize, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz fusilli or rotini pasta
• 1 can (5 oz) solid white tuna in water, drained
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and let cool.
2. Flake the drained tuna into a large mixing bowl.
3. Add chopped parsley, dill, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cooled pasta to the bowl.
4. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Pour dressing over the salad ingredients and gently fold until combined.
6. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 25mg