Irresistible Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs for Summer Bliss

The aroma of fresh herbs mingling with tender pasta and savory tuna is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. As you take your first bite of this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs, you’ll discover a delightful explosion of flavors that dances on your palate, making every meal feel like a gourmet experience.

This dish is not just a salad; it’s an invitation to savor life’s simple pleasures. Picture yourself enjoying it at a summer picnic, or perhaps as a quick weeknight dinner after a long day. The anticipation builds as you realize how easy it is to whip up this culinary masterpiece while still keeping your taste buds happy.

I remember the first time I made this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs for my family. My dad took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Now that’s some high praise!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Fusilli Pasta: This spiral pasta holds onto the dressing beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

• Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for richer taste and moisture.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add color and juiciness that brightens the salad.

• Cucumber: Refreshing and crunchy, diced cucumber adds a crisp texture that balances the dish.

• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness without overwhelming the other flavors.

• Fresh Herbs (Basil, Parsley): Use freshly chopped herbs for maximum flavor impact—dried just won’t cut it!

• Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice elevates the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle will tie all the ingredients together beautifully while adding richness.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors; season to taste!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, chop cherry tomatoes into halves and dice cucumber into small chunks. Slice red onion thinly; set aside.

Mingle with Tuna and Herbs: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained canned tuna, chopped basil, parsley, and prepared vegetables. Toss gently to mix while preserving textures.

Add Dressing Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined—this creamy goodness will elevate your salad!

Toss Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated in that scrumptious blend of flavors.

Chill Before Serving!: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this allows all those amazing flavors to mingle together!

With this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs recipe in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every last bite of this refreshing dish that brings joy to any occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and cool it. Mix your tuna and herbs while the pasta cooks for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out tuna for chicken or chickpeas if you want a different protein. Adding cherry tomatoes or olives can also bring more color and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store your tuna pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. There’s no need to reheat; serve it cold for best flavor.

Cooking this dish reminds me of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter filled the air and flavors danced on our plates. It was always a hit!

FAQ

Can I use canned tuna for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned tuna is perfect and saves time while still being delicious.

What herbs work best in tuna pasta salad?

Fresh parsley, dill, and basil are fantastic choices that brighten up the dish.

How do I make my salad creamier?

Add more mayonnaise or a splash of sour cream to achieve that desired creaminess.

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Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs

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This Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fusilli pasta, fresh herbs, and savory tuna for a satisfying meal. Perfect for picnics, quick lunches, or light dinners, this salad is both easy to prepare and visually appealing. With zesty lemon juice and crunchy vegetables, every bite offers a delightful taste of summer.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 1 can (5 oz) high-quality tuna packed in olive oil, drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the fusilli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. While the pasta cools, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the red onion.
3. In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, chopped basil, parsley, and prepared vegetables; toss gently.
4. In a smaller bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until evenly coated.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (220g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added protein variation, substitute tuna with cooked chicken or chickpeas. Enhance flavor with olives or additional seasonal vegetables.