Refreshing Tuna Pasta Salad with Zesty Dressing

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Looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm weather? This cold tuna pasta salad, loaded with colorful vegetables and a tangy dressing, is just what you need. It’s a great option for lunch, picnics, or even a quick dinner. The combination of tender pasta, protein-packed tuna, and crisp veggies, all tossed in a zesty dressing, creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that you’ll come back to time and time again.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 340 grams (12 ounces) of pasta
  • 2 cans of tuna, drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup cucumber, chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 3 tablespoons tomato sauce
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper or oregano

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt further cooking and cool it down. Set the pasta aside.
  2. Prepare the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, corn, chopped cucumber, diced green and red bell peppers, and finely chopped white onion. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, mustard, tomato sauce, mayonnaise, olive oil, salt, and black pepper or oregano.
  4. Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Mix everything thoroughly until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure the tuna is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Once chilled, give the salad a final toss, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Conclusion:

This cold tuna pasta salad is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy yet tangy dressing brings all the fresh ingredients together, making each bite refreshing and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, bringing it to a potluck, or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient and versatile option for busy days. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying meal whenever you need a quick and tasty dish!

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