Tuna Pasta Salad

When the warmth of summer hits, that unmistakable craving for something light and refreshing takes over. Picture a bowl of Tuna Pasta Salad, brimming with shell noodles, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing, all coming together in less than 30 minutes of prep time. This dish is not only quick to make but also delivers a satisfying combination of flavors and textures, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings.

This Tuna Pasta Salad is ideal for anyone looking for a quick meal, picnic food, or a dish to serve at family gatherings. Plus, it stores beautifully, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Just whip it up a few hours ahead of time or the day before, and you’re all set!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The shell noodles provide a delightful chewy texture that complements the creaminess of the dressing.
• It’s packed with protein from the canned tuna, making it both filling and nutritious.
• The mix of peas and crunchy veggies adds a burst of freshness to each bite.
• This salad can be quickly chilled, enhancing its refreshing taste.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to whip up your Tuna Pasta Salad.

For the Salad

• 2 cups shell noodles, cooked and cooled
• 1 can canned tuna, drained
• 1 cup peas, frozen or fresh
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced red onion

For the Dressing

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

Use low-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• For shell noodles, use any pasta shape.
• Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream.
• Swap canned tuna for canned chicken.
• Use fresh herbs instead of red onion for a milder flavor.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Tuna Pasta Salad.

Cook the noodles

Cook the shell noodles according to package instructions, then drain and let cool.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, tuna, peas, diced celery, and diced red onion.

Make the dressing

In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

Mix and chill

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until well combined. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the texture changes when frozen.
Reheat: not necessary, serve cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the noodles are completely cooled to prevent wilting the veggies.
• Adjust seasoning after mixing to suit your taste preference.
• Experiment with different veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread or a side of fresh fruit.
• Serve at outdoor gatherings or potlucks for a crowd-pleaser.
• Enjoy as a light lunch or quick dinner option.