Delicious Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs for Summer Fun

Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs is the ultimate dish that dances between hearty textures and refreshing flavors. Imagine digging into a bowl filled with perfectly cooked pasta intertwined with tender chunks of tuna, vibrant veggies, and a symphony of aromatic herbs. Each bite is a delightful explosion, making your taste buds sing in pure joy.

This dish is not just food; it’s a party on your plate! Whether you’re hosting friends for a summer cookout or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs brings everyone together. The colors pop like confetti, and the flavors entice you to dive in for more. Trust me; this salad will have you craving it long after the last forkful.

I remember making this Tuna Pasta Salad for my cousin’s birthday barbecue, and let me tell you, people were raving about it! Everyone kept asking for the recipe, which made me feel like a culinary rock star.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Pasta: I prefer using rotini because its spirals hold onto the dressing beautifully.

• Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for added flavor.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These add juicy sweetness; choose bright red ones for more vibrancy.

• Cucumber: Fresh cucumber provides crunch and refreshing coolness; peel if you prefer less bitterness.

• Red Onion: Use thinly sliced red onion for a mild yet zesty kick that perfectly complements other ingredients.

• Fresh Herbs (Basil & Parsley): These bring an aromatic freshness that makes every bite sing; chop finely.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances all the flavors beautifully.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salad; adjust according to taste preference.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors; always season to taste!

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

How to Make Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs

Start by cooking the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled.

Prepare the veggies: While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice red onion and set all aside in one large mixing bowl.

Combine tuna and herbs: Open canned tuna and drain excess oil. Flake tuna into small pieces using a fork before adding it to your mixing bowl along with chopped basil and parsley.

Mix everything together: Once pasta has cooled, add it to the mixing bowl along with vegetables and tuna. Drizzle olive oil over everything while squeezing fresh lemon juice on top.

Season generously: Toss all ingredients gently until well combined. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed for flavor adjustment.

Serve chilled or at room temperature: Transfer your Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs into a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with extra herbs if desired—enjoy immediately or chill in the fridge until serving time!

With these easy steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering Tuna Pasta Salad with Herbs that’s perfect for any occasion!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water. While the pasta cools, mix your tuna, herbs, and dressing in a large bowl for maximum flavor integration.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, or diced cucumbers for extra crunch. Swapping in different herbs can also make this salad uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Tuna Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to reheat it, do so gently in the microwave for best results.

One time, I made this Tuna Pasta Salad for a picnic, and everyone went back for seconds! They were raving about how fresh and tasty it was—definitely boosted my cooking confidence!

FAQ

Can I use canned tuna in oil or water?

Both work well; just remember that oil-packed tuna adds more flavor.

How long does Tuna Pasta Salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to three days when stored properly.

What type of pasta is best for this salad?

Short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne hold dressing well and add texture.

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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 a vibrant and delicious dish that beautifully combines tender rotini pasta, high-quality tuna, and a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner, this salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavors that will leave you craving more. With easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s ideal for any occasion!

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, flaked tuna, basil, and parsley.
3. Add the cooled pasta to the mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste; toss gently until well combined.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 45mg