Description
A delightful and refreshing salad combining robust Italian flavors with pasta, featuring protein-rich tuna and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling water according to the package directions for the pasta. Add the pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad and toss until well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill the salad: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve and garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It pairs well with crusty bread or grilled chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Italian pasta salad, tuna salad, quick lunch, healthy salad