Delicious Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs for Summer Picnics

There’s something incredibly delightful about a Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs that just screams summer picnics and family gatherings. Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly al dente pasta, coated in a creamy dressing, bursting with fresh herbs and tender chunks of tuna. Every bite is a symphony of flavors, a dance of textures that makes you want to slap your knee and shout, “This is good”

Picture this: it’s a sunny afternoon, the grill is fired up, and laughter fills the air as friends gather for a backyard bash. You proudly present your Tuna Pasta Salad, and suddenly you’re the culinary superhero of the day. Everyone wants to know your secret This dish isn’t just food it’s an experience that brings people together.

Whenever I make this Tuna Pasta Salad, my family dives in like it’s their last meal on Earth seriously, you’d think they hadn’t eaten in days Their reactions always make me chuckle it’s like watching kids unwrap presents on Christmas morning.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta: I prefer elbow macaroni for its perfect bite but feel free to use your favorite shape.
• Canned Tuna: Look for high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for extra richness.
• Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for creaminess Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley work wonders here chop them finely for maximum flavor release.
• Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes add color and sweetness diced bell peppers provide crunch.
• Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the salad and balances the richness of the mayo.
• Salt & Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning taste as you go to get it just right.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prep Your Veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop up your cherry tomatoes and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. The more colorful your veggies, the prettier your salad will be

Mix It All Up: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, drained tuna, chopped veggies, and fresh herbs. Toss gently with a spatula so everything mixes without breaking apart the tuna too much.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Drizzle this over your pasta mixture like it’s liquid gold.

Toss Everything Together: Pour the dressing over your pasta salad and mix thoroughly until every piece is coated in creamy goodness. Taste for seasoning adjust if necessary

Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so flavors meld beautifully.

Enjoy this Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs as a light lunch or bring it along to your next potluck gathering It’s sure to be a hit every time you serve it

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while prepping the dressing. Drain and cool before mixing in the tuna and herbs for maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out tuna for shredded chicken or add veggies like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers for a colorful twist. Customize it to fit your taste

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature no reheating needed

My cousin once told me this Tuna Pasta Salad saved her from a dinner party disaster. She forgot to plan, but this quick recipe turned her evening around, impressing everyone with its freshness

FAQ

Can I use canned tuna in water?

Using canned tuna in water is fine, but it lacks richness compared to oil-packed.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The Tuna Pasta Salad can last up to three days when stored properly.

What herbs work best in this recipe?

Fresh parsley, dill, and basil enhance the flavors of Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs perfectly.

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Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs

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• Author: Clara Rosewood
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is the perfect dish for summer gatherings, blending al dente pasta, tender tuna, and vibrant fresh herbs in a creamy dressing. This quick and easy recipe, ready in under 30 minutes, not only delights the taste buds but also brings family and friends together. With its colorful ingredients and refreshing flavor profile, this salad is destined to be a hit at any picnic or potluck.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 can (5 oz) high-quality tuna packed in olive oil
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. While the pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes and bell peppers.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, drained tuna, chopped veggies, parsley, and basil.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the pasta mixture.
5. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 25mg