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Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna Pasta Salad: A Vibrant Twist on a Classic Favorite

This Tuna Pasta Salad combines vibrant flavors in a healthy dish, ready in just 15 minutes for your next gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Substitute with any neutral oil if desired.
  • 3 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar White wine vinegar can act as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard works in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Fresh lime juice can be used instead.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Honey or maple syrup are great alternatives.
  • to taste Kosher Salt Sea salt or regular table salt can substitute.
  • to taste Black Pepper
For the Salad
  • ½ lb Short Pasta Small shapes like fusilli or bow tie pasta are ideal.
  • 6.7 oz Jarred or Canned Tuna Opt for tuna packed in olive oil for richer flavor.
  • 1 pint Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Substitute with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • 2 cups Baby Arugula Spinach can be used if preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Dill Fresh parsley or basil can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Chives Feel free to swap in fresh parsley or basil.

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • medium jar
  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a medium jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until emulsified.
  2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Halve the cherry tomatoes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Roast for about 15 minutes until tender.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add short pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the warm pasta with the prepared dressing. Gently fold in the roasted tomatoes, arugula, drained tuna, dill, and chives. Mix gently to combine.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, toss the salad gently to redistribute flavors. Add fresh arugula on top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, prepare the salad a day in advance and chill. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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