Looking for a quick, delicious meal that screams summer freshness? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Tuna Pasta Salad alla Primavera! This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful side for your next picnic. With tender pasta, succulent tuna, and a medley of colorful veggies, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a breeze to whip up in just 25 minutes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice the olives.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled and garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for short pasta shapes like fusilli or penne, which hold onto the dressing and ingredients better, enhancing each bite.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors meld beautifully for a more delicious experience.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to get creative! Add bell peppers, radishes, or even avocado for an extra twist. The more colorful, the better!
- Perfect the Dressing: Adjust the olive oil and lemon juice to suit your taste. A splash of red wine vinegar can also add a delightful tang.
- Garnish for Appeal: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only elevate the presentation but also add a burst of freshness.
- Make It Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container and enjoy it throughout the week!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 433kcal
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 30mg
