Description
This Healthy Tuna Pasta Salad is a light and protein-packed dish perfect for a nutritious lunch or easy meal prep. Featuring whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, flaked tuna, and a creamy Greek yogurt dressing with fresh vegetables, it combines wholesome ingredients with fresh flavors. The salad is easy to make, served chilled, and offers a balanced meal rich in protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Tuna
- 8 ounces whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- 1 (5-ounce) can tuna in water, drained and flaked
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, flaked tuna, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, chopped celery, and fresh parsley into the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything gently until evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning and chill: Taste the salad and add any additional salt or pepper if needed. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, add chopped bell pepper or sunflower seeds.
- This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
