Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe
This Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe is fresh, healthy and very easy to make. It is perfect for lunch, dinner or quick meal prep. The flavors are light but satisfying, making it a great choice for warm days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups short pasta shells or fusilli
- 1 can tuna in olive oil drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- ½ cup cucumber diced
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped
- ¼ cup black olives sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until tender but firm. Drain and let it cool completely.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash all vegetables properly. Cut tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and olives into small pieces for even mixing.
Flake the Tuna
- Open the tuna can and drain excess oil. Use a fork to gently flake the tuna into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
- Add cooled pasta, tuna, vegetables, and parsley to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad.
Mix Gently
- Mix everything slowly until all ingredients are evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to keep texture fresh.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed before serving.
Notes
- Always cool the pasta before mixing to avoid soggy salad.
- Use tuna in olive oil for better flavor and moisture.
- Add feta cheese for extra Mediterranean taste.
- Replace tuna with grilled chicken for variation.
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Add capers for a tangy flavor boost.
- Chill the salad for 20 minutes for better taste.