This tasty tuna pasta salad is packed with protein and flavor! With tender pasta, nutritious veggies, and yummy tuna, it’s a quick meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Mix it up with your favorite dressing, and you have a dish that everyone loves! I like to make extra for lunch the next day—so easy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape holds the dressing well, but you can swap it for any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni if you prefer something different.
Tuna: Canned tuna is convenient, but you could use canned salmon or chicken if you want to switch things up. Just make sure it’s drained properly!
Frozen Green Peas: I love adding peas for a pop of color and nutrition. If you don’t like them, you can replace them with chopped bell peppers or diced pickles.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and extra protein! If you’re not a fan, regular sour cream or even cottage cheese can work well too.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: If you want to make this salad quicker, you can skip the eggs or use store-bought pre-cooked ones. They add great texture!
What’s the Best Way to Mix Everything Together Without Making a Mess?
Mixing salad can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it without spilling! Use a large bowl to give yourself plenty of room.
- Start by adding the cooled pasta to the bowl first; then, add in the other ingredients one at a time.
- Use a large spoon or spatula to gently fold everything together. This method is less likely to break the pasta or crush the eggs!
- Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients, then continue to fold until everything is well coated.
Patience is key here; a gentle touch ensures your salad remains beautiful! Enjoy your tuna pasta salad with a smile.
Easy High Protein Tuna Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful tuna pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare! After mixing everything together, it’s best to let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, so the flavors blend beautifully. So, about 45 minutes total—and the wait is definitely worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it completely. Make sure to drain it well!
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, drained and flaked tuna, thawed green peas, chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced celery, and the optional diced onion if you’re using it. Mix it gently to combine.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and dried dill (if using) until you have a smooth dressing. This will give your salad rich flavor!
4. Toss Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Use a large spoon to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. It’s okay if it gets a little messy—just keep it gentle!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper, if needed. You want to make sure it’s just right for your taste!
6. Chill and Meld Flavors:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
7. Serve and Garnish:
When you’re ready to serve, give the salad one last gentle toss. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick, if you like!
Enjoy your delicious, protein-rich, creamy tuna pasta salad—perfect for lunch, dinner, or a tasty side dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great, nutritious alternative that will add fiber to your dish. Just cook it according to the package instructions, and you’re good to go!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover tuna pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. Just make sure to stir it well before serving, as the dressing may thicken over time!
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the tuna and hard-boiled eggs and add more veggies like diced bell peppers, corn, or even chickpeas for extra protein. The creamy dressing still complements all the flavors beautifully!
How Can I Add More Flavor to the Dressing?
For a flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder, a splash of apple cider vinegar, or some chopped fresh herbs like dill or basil. Experimenting with different herbs and spices can really elevate the taste!
