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Amazing Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad Recipe

Rose
This Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad is a quick, protein-packed dish made with tender pasta, flaky tuna, and a light yet rich dressing of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for meal prep, picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 430 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot for cooking pasta
  • colander for draining pasta
  • large mixing bowl
  • mixing spoon
  • knife for slicing onion
  • cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fusilli or penne pasta
  • 2 cans tuna in water, drained
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly. If serving cold, rinse under cool water and let drain completely.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Add the drained tuna to the dressing and gently break it into flakes with a fork, keeping some texture.
  • Add the thinly sliced red onion and chopped parsley. Stir gently to combine evenly.
  • Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss gently until evenly coated with the creamy tuna mixture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Notes

Salt pasta water generously for maximum flavor. Drain tuna thoroughly to prevent a watery dressing. Let pasta cool completely before mixing. Chill at least 30 minutes for best flavor. If the salad thickens after refrigeration, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil. Freezing is not recommended as the dressing may separate.

Nutrition

Calories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 24gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 520mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg
Keyword creamy tuna pasta salad, easy pasta salad, meal prep pasta salad, tuna pasta salad recipe
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