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Creamy Lemon Tuna Pasta Salad

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Creamy Lemon Tuna Pasta Salad is a refreshing, zesty dish combining flaky tuna, tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lemon dressing. It’s ideal for light lunches, picnics, or easy dinners.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or macaroni)
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water or olive oil, drained
  • 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill
  • Optional: 1 tbsp capers
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • Optional: 1/2 cup peas

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, drained tuna, sliced red onion, and chopped herbs. Add Parmesan cheese if using.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add optional ingredients if desired.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor; adjust to taste for more tang.
  • Stir before serving and add extra dressing if the pasta has absorbed too much.
  • Customize with chopped veggies or boiled eggs for extra texture and protein.
  • Great served with crackers, green salad, or crusty bread.
  • Not suitable for freezing or reheating.

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