Description
A light and refreshing Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad made with rotini pasta, chunk light tuna, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or a quick dinner, this salad is packed with protein and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Tuna
- 12 oz rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 2 (5 oz) cans chunk light tuna, drained
Vegetables and Herbs
- 3 tbsp red onion, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Juice from ½ lemon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool completely and stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the dressing bowl along with the drained tuna, chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and parsley. Gently fold all the ingredients together to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the salad cool completely.
- Serve and Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top for garnish and a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy and to cool it for the salad.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise or vice versa to adjust creaminess and tanginess according to your preference.
- For added crunch, consider adding chopped celery or bell peppers.
- This salad stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; stir before serving.
- Use chunk light tuna packed in water for a lighter version or in oil for a richer flavor.
