Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is like a summer beach party for your taste buds. Imagine a delightful mix of tender pasta, fresh herbs, and juicy tuna, all mingling together in perfect harmony. The moment you take a bite, the flavors dance on your palate, creating a symphony of taste that makes you want to shout, “More, please!” This dish is not just food; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavor that brings sunny vibes to any occasion.
Speaking of occasions, this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or even a cozy dinner at home when you want something light yet satisfying. It reminds me of those lazy summer days spent lounging outside with friends while savoring every mouthful of deliciousness. Just thinking about it has my stomach rumbling with anticipation!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs offers an incredibly easy preparation process that anyone can master
- Packed with fresh flavors, it’s visually appealing and perfect for summer gatherings
- You can customize it based on your favorite herbs or whatever you have in the fridge
- Ideal for meal prep, ensuring tasty leftovers throughout the week!
I remember the first time I made this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs for my family; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites. The compliments just kept rolling in!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Short Pasta: I usually go for rotini or penne because they hold onto the dressing beautifully.
- Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for richer flavor and moisture.
- Fresh Herbs: A mix of parsley and basil adds brightness and freshness to the salad.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet gems provide a burst of color and juiciness in every bite.
- Cucumber: Crunchy cucumbers add a refreshing texture that balances out the creaminess.
- Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a mild yet zesty kick.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor while keeping the salad moist and luscious.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors present in the salad.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
Prepare Tuna and Veggies: While pasta cools, drain tuna and flake it into a large mixing bowl. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
Add Fresh Herbs and Dressing Ingredients: Toss chopped parsley and basil into the bowl along with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Combine Pasta and Mixture: Add cooled pasta to the bowl containing veggies and tuna mix. Gently fold everything together until evenly distributed without mashing the ingredients.
Taste Test Time!: Sample your creation! Adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or lemon juice if desired.
Chill Before Serving: Cover your salad with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.
Now you’re ready to serve up this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs! Enjoy each colorful forkful of deliciousness while basking in compliments from family and friends.
You Must Know
- This delightful Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is a lifesaver for quick meals
- Its bright flavors and textures make it a crowd-pleaser
- You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for lunches or picnics
- Don’t forget to taste as you go—it’s your masterpiece!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while prepping the dressing. Mix everything together in a large bowl, ensuring even coating for delicious flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap tuna for chickpeas or add seasonal veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley bring an extra zing!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Tuna Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. No reheating needed—just give it a good stir before serving!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to cook the pasta just right—al dente keeps it from getting mushy in the salad
- Use fresh herbs; they elevate the dish significantly
- Don’t skip on seasoning; tasting as you go ensures perfection
It was during one chaotic picnic that I discovered how much everyone adores this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs. Friends kept asking for seconds, and I felt like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
Can I use canned tuna in oil for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned tuna in oil adds richer flavor compared to water-packed versions.
What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne are ideal since they hold onto the dressing well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is a vibrant blend of tender pasta, juicy tuna, and fresh herbs that will transport your taste buds to a sunny picnic. Perfect for potlucks or casual dinners, this dish is easy to prepare, visually appealing, and bursting with flavor. Customize it with your favorite herbs and enjoy the delightful medley of textures. Ideal for meal prep, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that keeps well in the fridge!
Ingredients
- 2 cups short pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 can (5 oz) high-quality canned tuna in olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, flake the drained tuna and add chopped vegetables: cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Toss in fresh herbs along with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; mix thoroughly.
- Gently fold in the cooled pasta until evenly combined without mashing.
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook/Boiling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 210g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
