Ah, tuna pasta salad—a dish that feels like a culinary hug, blending the ocean’s bounty with the comforting bite of pasta. Imagine a sunny picnic, the breeze carrying whispers of laughter, and you’re savoring each mouthful of this high-protein delight. It’s the kind of meal that makes you nostalgic for summer days, even in the heart of winter.
Steps
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and let it cool slightly.
- While the pasta is cooking, chop the celery and onion. Drain the tuna and warm the peas, or add them to the pasta water during the last minute of cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tuna, celery, onion, and peas. Pour half of the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Season the pasta salad with salt, pepper, and dried dill according to your taste. Cover and refrigerate the pasta mixture and remaining dressing separately for 30 minutes.
- When ready to serve, stir in the remaining dressing to maintain its creaminess. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces mini shell pasta
- ½ cup olive oil mayonnaise
- ½ cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup peas, warmed
- 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna, drained
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Dried dill, to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 646kcal | Carbohydrates: 84g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 550mg | Potassium: 628mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 660IU | Vitamin C: 25.4mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 3.2mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
- Yes, you can substitute the mini shell noodles with any small, bite-sized pasta of your choice.
- Is it possible to prepare Tuna Pasta Salad in advance?
- You can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
- What are some health benefits of the ingredients in this salad?
- Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Greek yogurt provides additional protein and creaminess.
- Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
- Absolutely, whole wheat pasta is a great option to make this dish even healthier.
- How should I store any leftovers of the Tuna Pasta Salad?
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator, keeping the pasta and dressing separate if possible, to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce.
Tips
- To maintain the creaminess of the salad, add the dressing just before serving. This prevents the noodles from absorbing too much of the sauce and losing its desired texture.
- For added convenience, warm the peas by adding them to the boiling pasta water during the last minute of cooking. This saves time and ensures they are perfectly cooked.
- If you’re preparing this dish in advance, store the pasta and the remaining dressing separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and flavorful.
- Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative that adds additional fiber to your meal without compromising on taste.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl – If you don’t already have a large mixing bowl suitable for combining all the ingredients.
- Small Mixing Bowl – For mixing the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt dressing.
- Colander or Strainer – To drain the cooked pasta.
- Cutting Board – If you don’t already have one for chopping vegetables.
- Chef’s Knife – A good quality knife for chopping celery and onion.
